Filmmaker dies in Swakop

DES Bartlett passed away on Saturday, September 12 at the age of 82 after a short illness.

Bartlett and his wife, Jen, are known all over the world for their wildlife documentaries since 1952. Their work was showcased on National Geographic television amongst other wildlife programmes. They also wrote articles for several wildlife publications.Born in Australia, Des and Jen moved to Namibia in 1978, where they continued work in wildlife filming. They moved to Swakopmund in the 90s where they have been based ever since.They made about 20 films of Namibia, many being of Etosha National Park and the Skeleton Coast. The films were shown internationally and made a significant input into local tourism.The Bartletts’ films won many awards, including two Emmys, which is the television equivalent to the Oscars.Des is survived by his wife, Jen, daughter Julie, and grandson Tarl.A memorial to celebrate the life of Des Bartlett will be held on Saturday September 26 at 13h30 at the Cemetery Chapel in Swakopmund. Dress is casual, and all are welcome to bring honour to this pioneer in local and international wildlife television filming. 
No flowers please. Donations for the Des and Jen Fund, Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF), are welcome.Supporters can either post donations to PO Box 245, Windhoek, or deposit into the NNF Project Support, Des and Jen Bartlett. Account No. 11000049923. Nedbank, Main Branch, Windhoek. Branch Code 461609.