Mark Smythe, a New Zealand-born composer based in the United States, has died during a hiking trip.
His sister, Kate Ward-Smythe, said in a post on social media that he collapsed and passed away suddenly while with friends on Mount Wilson in Los Angeles, on Saturday.
According to his obituary, Smythe was 53 when he died following an unexpected cardiac event.
He was a composer of film and concert music, and his score for the Australian horror film The Reef: Stalked was nominated for the SCL Awards (the Society of Composers and Lyricists) in the US and the World Soundtrack Awards in Belgium.
He was also the department head for composing for visual media at the Los Angeles College of Music.
"Mark was a strong larger than life connector in LA, as a professor, composer, musician, and loyal friend. He was also fiercely talented, and an absolute cheerleader for music performance and recording across multiple genres.
"He was only just getting started and had so much more to give ... We are heartbroken and trying to process this tragedy, as are all Mark's friends and family."
Smythe's obituary said a private cremation and ceremony would be held in Los Angeles, then there will be a celebration of his life and music held in Nelson.
It said he would be "forever remembered in the hearts and minds of all whose lives he blessed with his beautiful music and generous presence".
Smythe is remembered by his family in New Zealand including father Brian Smythe, mother Ginny Ward (and their partners), sisters Pepe Becker and Kate Ward- Smythe, as well as other family members.
