David Keltie (1938-2016)

David Keltie (1938-2016)

It was with great sadness that the IPKat learned of the loss of an incredibly loved and established member of the IP community, David Keltie, who passed away on 6 January 2016 after a long illness. The entire IPKat team extends their heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.

David was a dynamic and energetic personality in the IP community. Born in New Zealand in 1938, David first qualified as a physiotherapist, but found his true calling in 1976 when he qualified as a Chartered Patent Attorney.  Not long after, David founded Keltie in 1988 with Rosemary Cardas with the objective of creating "something amazing" - that of "a firm in which people could achieve personal growth, without fear - and in doing so, provide the ultimate in client care."  As soon as the Community Trade Mark system began, David was at the forefront - qualifying as a European Trade Mark Attorney in 1996.

Besides his extensive IP experience, the AmeriKat will personally remember David as a spectacular dining companion who charmed and entertained his guests with stories punctuated by his boisterous laughter.  She will also remember David for the way in which he nurtured and supported the talent of his junior associates (indeed, the first time the AmeriKat met David was at a dinner in 2009 where he was doing just that with one of his rising trade mark attorneys).  It is not surprising, therefore, that together with his dedicated team, David was able to grow Keltie from strength to strength - now with 12 partners and over 30 qualified practitioners.

The IPKat understands from Keltie's website that there will be a public celebration of David's life in the coming weeks.  Details of this and other tributes will be made available on Keltie's website (here) and their IPCopy blog (here), soon.  The Kat will also alert readers to details of the event once they are available.  

In the meantime, donations in David's memory may be made to the Marie Curie Hospice in Hampstead, London.