From staff reports
Renowned naturalist, teacher and television personality Rudy Mancke, known for his iconic role as the host of South Carolina ETV’s (SCETV) NatureScene and NatureNotes, died November 7 at the age of 78.
Mancke brought the wonders of the natural world into South Carolina homes with the debut of NatureScene on SCETV in 1978, along with co-creator Beryl Dakers and later, Jim Welch. The show captivated audiences for 25 years, concluding in 2003. It later gained national recognition, making it one of the first television programs to take viewers on expeditions to learn about a diverse range of plants and animals.
NatureScene became an invaluable educational tool, serving people of all ages, both inside and outside the classroom. Mancke’s unconventional field trips and enthusiasm for nature shaped the ecological perspective of countless enthusiasts.
“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Rudy Mancke, a beloved figure whose passion for the natural world touched the lives of countless individuals,” SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell said in a release. “Rudy’s boundless enthusiasm, deep knowledge and dedication to environmental education have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. His impact on our organization and the people of South Carolina is immeasurable.”
Throughout his career, Mancke dedicated himself to serving the citizens of South Carolina. His contributions extended to roles at the S.C. State Museum, SCETV and the University of South Carolina. As an educator, Mancke’s impact was immeasurable as he helped develop programming for K-12 students and professional development courses for hundreds of South Carolina educators.
In recent years, Mancke continued to share his knowledge and passion for the natural world with daily NatureNotes segments on SC Public Radio. These one-minute snippets touched on a wide array of topics related to the natural world, from the intricate workings of ecosystems to South Carolina’s unique flora and fauna, and beautiful sites worth exploring. His field trips, broadcast nationally, earned him a legion of dedicated viewers who were inspired by his insights and reverence for the natural world.
Before gracing television screens, Mancke served as the natural history curator at the S.C. State Museum. He was also a dedicated high school biology and geology teacher. Mancke’s academic journey led him to a degree from Wofford College, graduate studies at the University of South Carolina and honorary doctorate degrees from the College of Charleston, Winthrop College and Wofford College.
Mancke’s commitment to resource conservation has been recognized with special awards from the National Wildlife Federation and the Garden Club of America. Earlier this year, he was honored at the S.C. Public Radio 50th Anniversary Luncheon for his remarkable work. His legacy will continue to shine as he is posthumously inducted into the 2024 South Carolina Hall of Fame in January 2024.
Mancke’s love for the natural world, his educational contributions and his presence on SCETV have left an indelible mark on South Carolina and beyond. His memory will live on through the continued exploration and appreciation of the natural world he held so dear.
“Rudy was more than a host; he was our guide and teacher, a storyteller who brought ecosystems to life and made them accessible to all,” SCETV Producer and NatureScene co-creator Dakers said. He was also a lover of books and a student of literature who had the soul of a poet. The world is a better place because he was in it.”
