David Arthur Niemann, 74

Jan. 12, 1946-July 4, 2020

David grew up in Elmwood Park and developed an appreciation of plants and the environment at an early age. He attended the University of Illinois for his undergraduate degree and went on to Iowa State University to earn a Ph.D. in botany. David researched, collected, and grew orchids as a hobby and a home business, Greenview Gardens. Before retirement, he worked for the Illinois Department of Transportation as a botanist in the Environmental Planning Division.

David enjoyed listening to classical music, including that of Miklos Rozsa and other 20th century composers. He volunteered to produce a radio show for Elgin Public Radio called “Plant Man,” in which he answered commonly asked questions about growing plants.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Reinhart and Mary (Wendelken) Niemann; his brother, Conrad Niemann; and his sister, Barbara (Niemann) Farmer. He is survived by his wife, Jean Hervert Niemann; his children, Carl F.J. Niemann and Heather Hamilton (Lane); grandson, Rory Hamilton; and nephews and nieces.

Private interment was at McHenry County Memorial Park in Woodstock, Ill. Memorials may be made to JourneyCare Hospice.