1928 ~ 1998

On the 7th of April 1998, Victoria lost one of its most loved and respected orchid growers in Gunter Haar, after a short fight with cancer.

Gunter was the perfect gentleman and was universally admired and respected by everyone that he met in the various facets of his life.

Gunter came to Australia from Germany, with his wife Ruth, 50 years ago; they had three sons, Dieter, Eric and Martin. Gunter held a senior managerial position with Bosch, Australia. This was the only company he worked for during his active working life.

Gunter had a long time deep involvement in orchids and was an active member and Judge for the Victorian Orchid Club and numerous orchid societies around Melbourne.

He was program slide librarian for the Australian Orchid Council, a respected member of The Australian Orchid Foundation and patron of the Yarra Valley Orchid Society.

Gunter was the foundation Vice President and the first Patron of the Orchid Societies Council of Victoria and received the ultimate honour from his peers in being awarded Judge Emeritus status (upon his retirement). He was also awarded the OSCOV Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding service and contribution to orchids and judging.

Gunter’s virtues of moral strength, enlightenment, honesty, dignity, love and pride will be an eternal inspiration and indeed a wonderful comfort and guide for all of us.
Vale: Gunter Haar, you will be among friends for all time.

A donation has been made to the Australian Orchid Trust Fund by Mrs. Ruth Haar (Victoria).

AOTF: 1783

A donation has been made to the Australian Orchid Trust Fund by the Orchid Societies Council of Victoria (OSCOV).

AOTF: 1784

A donation has been made to the Australian Orchid Trust Fund by the Directors of The Australian Orchid Foundation.

AOTF: 1785