"David was an early influence on FOSS4G, having written a GRASS GIS How to , as well as being heavily involved in the first FOSS4G event at Chula University in Bangkok Thailand in 2004, where he helped bring the future founders of the annual FOSS4G event Venkatesh Raghavan, Markus Neteler, and Jeff McKenna together; indeed they shared many laughs and stories on that special trip together.�� He also led an ���Installfest��� at that FOSS4G 2004 event, which set the tone for so many future events.��David would later go on to study at the global level a measurement of human development and happiness, what he coined as the Human Security Index.��Dr. David A. Hastings unfortunately left us for his heavenly abode on the 13th��of November, 2017.�� He leaves behind wonderful memories and deep sense of appreciation with all his friends and colleagues. David is survived by his gracious wife his son currently residing in Colorado, USA. He will be missed for his wisdom and wit and his contributions long remembered."