Walter David, former president of W.B. David, a onetime De Beers sightholder and prominent New York City diamond company, died April 12 at age 71.
Through subsidiary American Diamond Syndicate, David’s company was among the first De Beers sightholders to sell direct to U.S. retailers. It later created and launched the Leading Jewelers of the World program.
David also served as vice president of the Diamond Manufacturers and Importers Association.
His company made headlines in 2004 when it brought a lawsuit against De Beers after it lost its sight following 35 years as a De Beers client.
Son Jeffrey remembered his father as a “man who lived life straight, with morals and integrity.”
“Having worked with my father for almost 30 years I can honestly say that I could not have had a better role model,” he said in a eulogy. “He taught me about life, organization, business, and diamonds, to name a few. During his illness, not having him at the desk across from me to throw out questions and ideas was hard, and I’m sure that will continue.”
David is survived by wife Marian, Jeffrey, daughter Aileen, and brother Sheldon, who also worked in the business.
Notes of condolence can be sent to the David family by email to wbdavid996@aol.com. Contributions in his memory can be directed to Chai Lifeline.
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