I have only just learnt today that Peter is no longer with us. I have missed his happy face from a few recent gun shows and shoots at Malabar but figured he was busy with his work- which he clearly loved. He was always most generous with his time and advice on anything from farming, vet advice and gun collecting. He is a friend that I will sadly miss and my condolences go out to his family and friends

He was a great teacher, He was like a jolly grandpa who had a wealth of knowledge to share. I was really looking forward to getting him as a teacher again when I finish my vet nursing class... I am glad I got to meet him and have the benefit of his teaching.I told him I was pregnant at the beginning of the year and he went and told the whole class...thanks ... lol Then throughout my pregnancy, put up with my morning sickness... then I took my son down to the TAFE so he could meet Pieter a week or two after he was born. I am so glad I did. Thankyou Pieter for a great year.. Thankyou for everything you taught me. I will finish this course and all thanks is to you for your support

Condolences to Peter's family from Brian Munro of Leeton. Pete was in many of my clinical groups at University and was well known for his ability to know someone wherever you went. Fond memories of Pete and Graeme at the Perisher View Lodge in 1966 when we absconded from Curly Johnson's Clin Path pracs to try the slopes at Perisher. As usual Pete knew some one in every bar - not sure about the slopes because I don't think he made it on to the slopes. Our sympathy Brian & Jan

He was seen as a hard man, but for anyone who really knew him he was very kind with a life time of knowledge. Always happy to help those who are prepared to help themselves as he would say "I'm not going to spoon feed you or hold your hand". He was always positive, bringing the best out in people and often talked of his family he loved so much. Not to mention his wife's baked dinners he always looked forward to. When I think of Pieter I think of "BIG". Big heart, big hands, big personality, big social network, big in knowledge and last but not least, holds a big place in the hearts of those who knew him. Pieter will be missed and always remembered

I only met Pieter this year when he became my teacher for Animal Technology. At first we all thought he was big and scary and we were quite terrified of him. As we got to know him we saw just how caring a teacher he was, especially if you put some effort into his class. A huge loss to the world. We'll miss you Pieter!!

Old mate, you have finally completed the Merkel Circle. Condolences and best wishes to Jo, Hans, Patricia and family. This is behalf of Pip, Taffy, Roger and all the surviving members of the University of Sydney, Faculty of Veterinary Science, graduating year of 1966. David O'Hara BVSc MRCVS

So sad, so soon, our paths seldom crossed in recent years but I will always remember your dedication to our students at TAFE. You shared your knowledge and enthusiasm with both teachers and students. A special man who will be sorely missed.

So sad and far too soon, our paths crossed too infrequently in recent years but I will always remember your proferssional dedication to our students at TAFE. Always ready to share your knowledge and experiences and give encouragement and support to us all, both teachers and students.

Pieter Merkelbach was a teacher who had a reputation for being a hard marker and was quoted many times for saying 'i'm not going to hold your hand". For those who did the work, he was encouraging and supportive. He was able to identify hiden qualities within his students as a horseman would recognise personalities within his horses and help them work to their strengths. He remembered everyones names and would always stop and say hello within the Tafe grounds. Pieter was also a man of strength who never resulted in yelling when dealing with difficult students. Pieter often spoke of his son with pride and shared humerous memories of situations he and his wife had experienced. Pieter was also seen as humbled when a student expressed gratitude. A big man with huge hands who has guided many people into a career path. Pieter Merkelbach, you will be fondly remembered.

Farewell good and loyal friend. You were always available when needed and always reliable. I should have planned that shooting weekend earlier and not let a busy life intrude. I'll miss you. Pax Domini vobiscum.