Ad industry leader Dave Walden dies
Bill Ralston pays tribute to "Devo," the last of the Mad Men.
One of New Zealand's best-known ad men has died.
The outspoken, larger-than-life Dave Walden (66) co-founded Whybin TBWA Group, the agency behind the long-running 'Goldstein' campaign for ASB.
As well as a string of high-profile agency roles, he served as the president of CAANZ and on the board of the Fred Hollows Foundation.
Mr Walden was also a passionate supporter of New Zealand's America's Cup team, and led the infamous "Black Heart" campaign in 2002 and 2003.
"Dave Walden, always known as Devo, was the last man standing in the classic Madmen advertising world that grew out of the 1970's, 80's and 90's," media commentator Bill Ralston tells NBR.
"A long luncher and splendid companion, he somehow managed to seamlessly combine both work and pleasure and extract the best results for both," he says.
"Devo had 'soul'. I, for one, will miss him terribly as I know all his other friends, colleagues and clients will, too.
"David Walden was a very rare vintage."
A statement issued by his friend Angela Griffin, says, "He loved to see talent grow and thrive or make a difference where it most mattered.
"But it wasn't just about the industry. David touched the hearts and minds of many beyond his family to whom he was fiercely loyal. He has legions of friends who give testimony to his wisdom and generosity.
"He was an amazing person who did things his own way."
He died peacefully on Saturday morning, his family says.
He is survived by his wife Annie and two children Joanna and Michael.
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Ad industry leader Dave Walden dies
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