David Alan Fetherston

1950 - 2021

David Alan Fetherston
September 16, 1950 - February 26, 2021
The world of photography, custom cars, gardening, journalism, publishing and so much more, lost one of its devotees this year on February 26, 2021 in Sebastopol, CA.
David was born and raised in Canberra, Australia, the third of three siblings, and moved to California in 1984, drawn by the lure of the automotive world. He put roots in Sebastopol and never left, except for travels.
David pumped more into 70 years than most. His career started in photography and branched out to journalism contributing to automotive magazines worldwide. He documented not only the achievements of individual car owners, but also the history of automotive manufacturers, leaving no stone unturned. He collaborated with hot rodder Vern Tardel and others as he branched into publishing and is remembered as one of the most important chronologists of the automotive world, determined to keep the facts straight.
In free time at home, he thrived in admiration of his garden, a love shaped by the legacy of his father Gerard (Tony) Fetherston, Head of the School of Horticulture in what is now known as Fetherston Gardens outside of Canberra, Australia.
As lofty as those achievements are, he was at the same time a salt-of-the-earth guy anxious to help others in their projects and help launch careers. He fiercely defended what he believed was right, and rejected stereotypes, always looking deeper into a person's character. He had friends worldwide and worked to stay in touch with them.
David was preceded in death by his parents and recently, his beloved sister Janet Lawrence. David was Papa-Bear-proud of his two children Kate and Ben throughout their lives and later his grandchildren, Jackson and Poppy (all in Denver, Colorado). His love and devotion to his blended-family stepchildren Jesse (in Oakland) and Sierra and her children West and Maielle (in San Jose, CA) was boundless, and he will be forever and always loved and missed by his wife Nanette.
A gathering to celebrate David will be held September 17th at Ragle Ranch gazebo area anytime from 11 – 2pm.