David Rosen

David was born in Tel Aviv on 20 April 1936 and received his academic training at the Faculty of Agriculture, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. For many years, he advanced the use of biological control within the framework of an integrated approach to insect pest control. David was always sure to express his views on theoretical as well as applied issues in biocontrol, even when in the minority.  David Rosen wrote or edited 8 books (2 more are yet to be published) and authored or co-authored 200 book chapters and research papers. David was also a gifted teacher and was yearly recognized as such by students and administrators. Recently, he was honored with the Rector's award for many years of excellence in teaching. David was warm and outgoing. He had a great sense of humor and a story to tell for every occasion. He fought his last battle against a malignant illness with realism, courage and optimism that characterized his life and career. Despite physical difficulties, David attended six international meetings during the last year of his life and was professionally active until his last day. David had a vast impact on the development of plant protection in Israel, an impact that will be long-lasting through his own contributions and the continuing efforts of his 33 M.Sc. and 20 Ph.D. students. His untimely departure leaves a great void. His leadership, inspiration, and friendship will be greatly missed by colleagues, students, and many friends around the world.

By Moshe Coll

Book dedication – Predatory Heteroptera: Their Ecology and Use in Biological Control. M Coll & JR Ruberson, eds. Entomol. Soc. Am. 1998.