Dirk Van Zandt

Dirk Van Zandt, 79, died May 4, 2012 of sudden coronary arrest at his residence in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Dirk was born in Boston, Massachusetts, October 12, 1932. He spent a portion of his childhood raised in an orphanage and at age 14 contracted polio. He was always independent but would use a cane for the rest of his life. Overcoming adversity, Dirk earned a Degree of Associate in Applied Science from the State University of New York in Alfred, NY on a disability scholarship. His degree led to a number of laboratory jobs including Analytical Chemistry Technician, Oceanographer and Electron Microscopy in Biological and Medical Sciences working with Crystal and X-ray Spectrometers. Outside of work he enjoyed mastering his talents of gardening, photography, film developing and his love for playing the guitar. He retired from Johnson & Johnson in 1987 and "hit the road" with a 16' trailer in tow. His destinations were national parks where he would volunteer his skills. He finally settled permanently in the Carlsbad area where he made his largest contribution at Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Dirk developed photos from the Park's historic negatives and took new photographs for current park events. He enjoyed doing close up photography of different plant and animal species to add to the Park's collection. Later in his life, Dirk turned his attention to what really mattered - working with kids. He always enjoyed being the neighborhood bike repair guy, tutoring, or just listening. He began foster grandparenting through the Boys and Girls Club giving support and attention to needy and underprivileged children. In recent years, his passion turned back to gardening and that is one of his gifts that neighbors remember him for the most. He also kept up his studies in Meta-physics, astrology, and any science journal he could subscribe to...a scientist to the end. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the neighborhood children; and his rescued cat, Mr. D "Dee Der." Dirk is survived by his two sons Kim and Sean Van Zandt, granddaughter Skye, sister Gretel, a niece, and nephews. No Memorial Services are planned at this time. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.