It was just after arriving in Seattle from London on our way home from France, that I learned on Facebook that Eric Dunham had died. I posted, "Just learned the shocking and saddening news about Eric Dunham. He will be greatly missed."

Eric had deep roots in the Walla Walla Valley as co-owner and winemaker of Dunham Cellars which he started in 1995 with his father, Mike. He had started winemaking as a hobby, then worked at Hogue Cellars and then L'Ecole No. 41 before asking his father to help start their own winery. The operation was moved to its present location in an airplane hangar near the airport in 1998. His wines have consistently received critical acclaim, including his Cabernet Sauvignons which have received 19/20 points scores in the Review of Washington Wines.

Eric was generous in helping anyone who needed it. He also had a wry sense of humor and was an avid cook and artist. As the news of his passing spread around the Valley, there was an outpouring of tributes and rememberances of him. There will be a Celebration of the Life of Eric Dunham on Saturday, November 1st, and hundreds will come to the winery to pay their respects. Everyone will be missing him.

For a well-written, detailed bio of Eric Dunham by Andy Perdue, go to www.greatnorthwestwine.com/2014/10/24/eric-dunham/.