SADLY DEPARTED

We would like to thank family members, friends and colleagues who have notified us of the deaths of Old Fettesians and other friends of Fettes listed in this edition of the Newsletter. This list includes news of deaths that we have been made aware of up until 16th May 2023. If you know of any omissions, please do let us know by emailing ofa@fettes.com or calling +44 (0)131 311 6741.

JAMES V KINNIER WILSON (KI 1935–1940)

James V Kinnier Wilson passed away on 22nd December 2022, aged 101.

James followed his older brother Dr Alexander B Kinnier Wilson (Ki 1930–1935) (Deceased) to Fettes. His nephews Ninian A Kinnier Wilson (Ar 1967–1972) (Deceased) and Jim B Kinnier Wilson (1972–1977) were both at Fettes. Whilst at Fettes, James was a House Prefect, Secretary of the Art Society and a member of the 3rd XV. He also won the Governors’ Prize for Latin Prose and was Sergeant in the Officer Training Corps.

James was a British Assyriologist and authored many publications.

He was admitted to Christ Church, Oxford in 1946 and awarded a BA (Oxon), in (Classical) Hebrew and Assyriology. In 1950 he was appointed Lecturer in Assyriology at Durham University. He had a research year in 1951–52 at The Oriental Institute, University of Chicago and became a lecturer and (one year) Asst. Prof., University College, Toronto from 1953–55. From 1955–89 James was appointed Eric Yarrow Lecturer in Assyriology at the University of Cambridge during which Cambridge became a leading centre in the subject. In addition to this, he was Chairman of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, Cambridge 1965–67. He was an Emeritus Fellow, Wolfson College, Cambridge. He supervised several students who went on to hold major university and museum posts and who exercised a decisive influence on the study of ancient Iraq (Mesopotamia).

DAVID H H ROBERTSON (CA 1938–1943)

David H H Robertson passed away on 4th February 2023, aged 98.

Whilst at Fettes, David was a House Prefect. He achieved the Royal Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion and the 1st Class Instructor’s Certificate. He was also in the Art Society. His son, Michael L H Robertson (Ca 1967–1972) also attended Fettes.

The following was published in The Scotsman:

‘David studied Medicine at the University of Edinburgh and qualified in 1948.

‘From 1949–1951 he undertook his National Service responsibilities as a Surgeon-Lieutenant at HMS Victory, Royal Naval Barracks, Portsmouth.

‘In December 1951, he married Vera and after completing a course in Tropical Medicine in Liverpool, Vera and David set sail for East Africa. He was a Medical Officer in Dar es Salaam. In 1955 he moved to Tororo, Uganda, having taken up a position as a Medical Research Officer with the East African Trypanosomiasis Research Organisation. In 1963 he left to fill the Registrar’s position in the Department of Venereology at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, becoming a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh in 1966. In 1969 he became Head of the Department and Senior Lecturer. Until 1990 he was Head of the Department of Genito-Urinary Medicine and Senior Lecturer at the University of Edinburgh.

‘He retired in 1991 and in 1997 emigrated to Canada where he resided in both North Vancouver, BC and Maple Ridge, BC.’

Whilst in Canada, David participated in the annual OF gatherings in Vancouver.

He is survived by his wife Vera, son Michael and daughters, Eleanor and Clare as well as four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

QUENTIN (MARK) P M PATERSON (CA 1943–1944)

Quentin (Mark) P M Paterson passed away on the 18th November 2022, aged 95.

At Fettes Mark was in the 3rd XI. After Fettes Mark was soon evacuated to the US during the Second World War. He worked in publishing in New York and as a literary agent in London.

The following was published in The Bookseller:

‘After a spell in the Royal Marines, he undertook an apprenticeship at Thomas Nelson Publishers in Edinburgh, and then, aged 22, returned to the US to work firstly for Oxford and then Cambridge University Presses.

‘The contacts and knowledge he made in the US served him well when he returned to the UK in the 1950s and established his own literary agency, Mark Paterson & Associates.

‘In the 1970s he was appointed the foreign rights agent for the BBC Books working on the rights and co-editions for some of the significant books of that time.

‘It was however, an introduction to Ernest Freud, the son of Sigmund Freud, that led to Mark and the agency becoming specialists in the area of psychoanalytical publishing. Mark took full responsibility for Sigmund Freud Copyrights, which he continued in his retirement. He worked across the whole field of psychoanalytical publishing, including representation in the estates of Anna Freud, Donald and Clare Winnicot, Wilfred Bion, Michael and Enid Balint, and Marion Milner amongst others. He continued to work with and represent other general academic and educational writers and estates, including John Seely, Patrick Casement, the estate of Dorothy Richardson and the late Hugh Brogan and Peter Moss.

‘In 2000, he merged his agency with Paul Marsh creating

Paterson Marsh Ltd – now fully incorporated into The Marsh Agency Ltd.’

JOHN D L MELVIN (CA 1944–1947)

John D L Melvin passed away on 11th April 2023, after a short illness, aged 92.

He joined Carrington House in 1944 and participated in the many aspects of life at Fettes. He achieved his Royal Lifesaving Society Medallion in 1945. He was in the 3rd XV and the School Choir. He was in the Art Club and the Bridge Club and was the Leading Cadet A.T.C. Proficiency and Advanced Training.

John kept in touch with Fettes and more recently three of John’s grandchildren attended the school: Amy Hardie (CW 2002–2006), Nell Hardie (CW 2005–2007) and Gael Hardie (CW 2005–2010)

John intended to join the celebratory Sunday Lunch at Fettes in October for Carrington’s 150th anniversary and would have been our oldest Carringtonian present. Unfortunately he did not feel up to it on the day.

He is survived by his wife Anne and children Frances, David and Robert along with his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

MICHAEL J BURNS (GL 1945–1949)

Michael J Burns passed away on 16th October 2022, aged 90.

Both Michael and his brother Tho Burns (Gl 1939–1943) (Deceased) attended Fettes. Alongside his academics at Fettes Michael participated in many of the societies, namely the Science Society, Debating Society and the Ornithological Society.

The following was published in The Press and Journal:

‘Michael John Burns was born in Dingwall where he lived for more than 80 years before moving to Maryburgh.

‘He was educated at Dingwall Primary School, Dingwall Academy, Fettes College Edinburgh, and the universities of St Andrews and Edinburgh, gaining the degree of MA LLB (Hons).

‘It was at Edinburgh that he met Janet, to whom he was very happily married for 63 years.

‘Mr Burns qualified as a solicitor and, after national service with the Seaforth Highlanders, joined the family firm TSH Burns & Son, Park Street, Dingwall, along with his father, Thomas and his brother, Saunders.

‘He very much enjoyed his career and said that he never knew what was coming through the door, be it a case of murder or divorce.

‘For many years, Michael provided the Law Society of Scotland with advice on crofting law and, in later years, served as an honorary sheriff for the Sheriffdom of Grampian and Highlands and Islands, a role which he felt privileged to hold.

‘He had three daughters, Alison, Davina and Sarah-Jane, 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.’

In the OF Newsletter of 2021 David wrote to tell us news of his tremendous fundraising achievement: ‘From mid-February to the end of April this year (2021) I was slightly busy as I tried to complete my charity target of walking 100 miles on behalf of Alzheimers Research UK. My target date was the end of April and I am delighted to say that I completed my target of walking (or rather dawdling) 100 miles and raised money for what I believe is a really worthwhile cause. Not a really challenging target for someone who is young and fit but, I can assure everyone, something which I was not certain I could achieve as the paralysis of my arms, body and above all legs ten years ago has certainly affected me.’

He ended his update with the note: ‘My target now is to reach the memorable age of 90 in March 2022.’ We are delighted that he managed to achieve this aim!

MICHAEL (MICKEY) I C BAIN (GL 1946–1948)

Michael (Mickey) I C Bain passed away on 30th November 2021, aged 92.

Mickey came to Fettes from Singapore. He made the most of his two years at Fettes participating in the Art Club, the Photographic Society and the Science Society. He was in the 3rd XI Cricket team and was a keen swimmer coming 3rd in the Open Diving competition. He was also a member of the fencing club.

His wife contacted us to let us know of his death. She noted that ‘He passed away in France where he had been living for many years. He was always speaking about Fettes with nostalgia and I know he passed away taking along with him in his thoughts Fettes College where he spent time when he was young’.

DOUGLAS D SHEWAN (CW 1946–1952)

Douglas D Shewan passed away in December 2022, aged 88. Douglas excelled at sport competing in the 1st XV and the Basketball team. He enjoyed the Photographic Society and the Science Society and held the rank of Corporal in the Army section of the CCF.

After Fettes he had a career in global finance, working initially in South America where he was also the Regional Representative for the OFA in Brazil and Uruguay from 1969–1974. Later in his career he worked in the Middle East. He retired to the UK and at the end of his life he lived in Hampshire.

He had one OF relative, his niece Susan B Williams (Ki 1975–1976), one of the early Fettesiennes at the school.

ALAN A W WADDELL (CA 1946–1951)

Alan A W Waddell passed away on 14th September 2022, aged 89.

DAVID O HORNE (GL 1945–1950)

David O Horne passed away on 25th December 2022, aged 90.

At Fettes David was a House Prefect and he was in the 4th Cricket XI. He was on the Science Society Committee, in the Debating Society and was the rank of Corporal in CCF (Army Section, Signals).

At Fettes, Alan was both a sportsman and an academic. He was a School Prefect and he played in the 1st XV in 1949–1950 but was injured in 1950–1951 so was unable to play. He was in the 1st Hockey XI, the Fives team and he played golf. He left Fettes for Pembroke College, Cambridge, and then did his National Service with the

Royal Artillery. He won a Harkness Fellowship to Harvard Business School and was awarded an MBA in 1958. He then worked in finance at Lazard Brothers and investment at the Glasgow stockbroking firm Speirs & Jeffrey.

Alan was a Governor of the Fettes Trust from June 1972, retiring in July 1984. He was Convenor of the Finance and General Purposes Committee. He was very proud to be Guest of the Day at Founder’s Day in 1985, having also stepped up to speak as Guest of the Day two years prior.

Alan married Marjorie in 1959 and they had four children, Gillian, Jennifer, Graham and Andrew. After school and university, he continued to play rugby and then squash. A very tall scrum half and man with a lovely line in drop shots and boast shots in the squash court. Later on, he would continue stubbornly with his ancient 1950’s golf clubs to hugely enjoy playing golf.

Alan was from a large family of Fettesians begun by his OF father Herbert Waddell (Mo 1915–1921) (Deceased) and uncle Robert Waddell (Mo 1915–1917) (Deceased). His brothers Robin Waddell (Ca 1945–1950) (Deceased) and Gordon Waddell (Ca 1950–1956) (Deceased) also attended Fettes. Alan’s own children Graham Waddell (Ca 1977–1972) and Andrew Waddell (Ca 1982–1987) came to Fettes as well as his grandchildren Kate and Anna Waddell (PS-CW 2008–2015), Lachlan Waddell (Ki 2008–2013) and Duncan Waddell (Ca 2021–present).

DONALD S YOUNG (CA 1946–1951)

Donald S Young (Ca 1946–1951) passed away on 24th July 2022, aged 89.

He was the son of Stewart (Ca 1915–1919) (Deceased), brother of Kenneth (Ca 1948–1953) (Deceased) and uncle of Kate Eckett (née Young) (Gl 1979–1981).

The following was written by William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955), with considerable help from Lucy Copper, Donald’s daughter:

At Fettes Donald was a House Prefect, in the 1st XV, the 1st XI Cricket team and he played fives and golf. The Fettesian of July 1950 notes of D S Young: The most natural stroke player in the team; he never seemed to be in difficulties, yet he always got out carelessly just when set. As a bowler he was always dangerous, and took several valuable wickets. His cheerful confidence and aggressive spirit meant much to the team.

His career was one of a stockbroker, mainly with the then well-known City firm of Colegrove and latterly with a smaller one in Reigate. His great enthusiasm in life was golf; in his younger days as a low handicap player and in his latter ones, although not playing to his earlier standard, as a keen follower of, and commentator on, the game. He played for the Old Fettesians in the Halford Hewitt, including as a member of the team which won the trophy in 1964; also in matches in the south and in the Cyril Gray. Playing with the late Billy Steel (Gl 1949–1954) (Deceased), his partner in the 1964 Halford Hewitt final, he hit one of the finest shots the latter had ever seen, a two iron to within a foot or two of the pin on the 14th at Deal. Donald was a member of many golf clubs including St George’s Hill, the R&A and Prestwick. He was also a member of the Moles, a peripatetic match playing club. At St George’s Hill he used to hold court at the bar to the entertainment and amusement of his listeners, often with risqué stories.

Donald married Nicky in 1960 and was a wonderful family man. They had three daughters and a son and ten grandchildren, in each of whom he took a special interest. A notable feature of their life was the family holiday at Trevose in Cornwall where he organised golf competitions, including one in the dark where the balls glowed, and a cricket match. He usually acted as umpire and in an unpredictable way making up the rules as he went along, depending on whoever he wished to favour at the time.

Donald was a most likeable and popular person and is sadly missed by his family, including his sister, Ann Laughland, and his many friends.

JOHN A L GUNN (KI 1947–1953)

John A L Gunn passed away on 5th March 2023, aged 88. John followed his brother Andrew L Gunn (SH-Ki 1943–1950) (Deceased) to Fettes, arriving as a Foundationer in 1947, he participated fully in Fettes life becoming Head of House in his final year. He was a member of the Paramecium, Vice-Chair of the Debating Society, awarded the Governors’ Prizes for Greek and English, he was Captain of the 3rd XI Cricket team, a player in the 3rd XI Hockey team and was in the CCF. He won a Major Open Scholarship for Classics to Christ Church, Oxford.

He had a career in the Civil Service working across many portfolios including the Ministry of Transport, the Department of the Environment, Water Services and Heritage.

During his life he was in touch with Fettes and attended some events. In his last wishes he requested that Floreas Fettesia was played at his funeral.

ROBERT (BOB) HANSON (CW 1947–1953)

Robert (Bob) Hanson passed away on 3rd October 2022, aged 88.

At Fettes Bob was a House Prefect. He joined in with many aspects of school life alongside academics. He participated in life saving, boxing, the 4th XV and the Reel and Country Dancing Society. He performed in the College West play The Happiest Days of Your Life and the school performance of A Doll’s House. He was joined in 1950 by his brother Hartley Hanson (CW 1950–1955) (Deceased)

Bob left Fettes to study medicine at Trinity College Dublin from 1953–59 and had a great time, eventually qualifying BA, MB Bch BAO, in 1959. For his Houseman’s year he went to M’PILO Hospital, Bulawayo in what was then Southern Rhodesia. On return to the UK he helped his father for his final year in General Practice. This did not appeal, so he moved into Anaesthetics and, needing a course for the FFA, he joined the Royal Navy. He spent much of the rest of his career as a Naval doctor across a diverse range of roles from medical officer to a diving specialist, moving into the Institute of Naval Medicine. Having become expert in deep dive compression he did a PhD at Southampton University on ‘The Effect of Hyperbaric Environments on Exercise Metabolism’. Towards the end of his career he was employed by the Ministry of Defence as Principal Civilian Medical Officer. This entailed advising the Surgeon General on the Occupational Health of civilians working in service establishments, making sure that service and civilian personnel received the same ‘Duty of care’ from their employer (MOD).

Bob was a regular attendee at the OF Newcastle Dinner.

PETER D J ELLES (MO 1948–1953)

Peter D J Elles passed away on 28th June 2022, aged 88.

During his time at Fettes, Peter was a House Prefect, played in the 1st XV from 1952–1953 and was a member of the Science Society. He was also a member of the Music Club, the Choir and the Orchestra. He was a Leading Seaman in the Naval section of the CCF. His son, Tim J L Elles (Mo 1980–1985) also attended Fettes.

The following was published in the Helensburgh Advertiser:

Died peacefully on 28th June 2022. Will be missed by his wife, Penny. Dedicated father to Timothy, Juliet and Alexander (deceased). Devoted Grandfather to Calum, Sophie, Alasdair and Robin.

DAVID G HUNTER (GL 1948–1953)

David G Hunter passed away on 6th August 2022, aged 87. David came to Fettes from Hong Kong. He played for the 4th XV from 1952 to 1953 and was a strong swimmer, being awarded both the RLSS Bronze Medallion and the Bronze Cross for life saving skills.

The following was written by his family: David was the only surviving child of Scottish expatriates, spending his early life in China, Hong Kong, Australia and South Africa before attending Edinburgh Academy and Fettes College. After graduation, David served as an officer in the British Royal Navy based in Hong Kong and Singapore. His early career began in Singapore with Malaysian Stevedoring before being convinced to give up the Far East life for a university degree in Vancouver. David attended UBC, graduating from Civil Engineering (‘61) and there he met and wed his life partner, Margarete (Gretel) Kruger.

Calling Vancouver his home, but ever the adventurer, David continued to explore the world and the couple moved their family to various locations including Dominica, Britain, Northern BC, Jamaica, Indonesia and Thailand, primarily working as an international development specialist with global aid agencies within water, sewage, power and infrastructure space. David also did shorter solo contracts throughout Canada, the Caribbean, the Middle East, Northern Africa and Asia. His professional contributions were extensive; latterly he worked as an expert in Engineering Claims for Revay and Associates for 25 years, only retiring in 2021.

Not only was David a valuable member of his profession, he and his wife were home builders extraordinaire who took building to the next level by doing everything from pouring concrete to plumbing to shingling roofs. Their legacy remains in the homes they single-handily built in Whistler, Vancouver and finally in Chilliwack, where they spent 20 years on their beloved acreage at Ryder Lake.

David made life long friends wherever he went and, along with Gretel, and despite the many bionic parts he acquired latterly, faithfully and frequently travelled the globe, Canada and their BC backyard, keeping those connections and friendships alive. He was active with the Old Fettesians and did not miss the opportunity to gather with his UBC Civil (‘61) classmates.

A keen intellect and intensely knowledgeable of world affairs, David loved his family, his pets and the outdoors – he spent his final days with all three in the country he loved so much. He will be missed by his wife Gretel, his children Bruce, Birte (Tom) and Rhona and his grandchildren, Kiah, Sheldon, Makenzie, Siobhan, Teagan and Keeva.

KENNETH A MACKINNON CVO WS (GL 1948–1954)

Kenneth A MacKinnon CVO WS passed away on 23rd April 2023, aged 87.

The following was written by William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955) with considerable help from Neil A MacKinnon (Gl 1977–1982):

Kenny was the son of Neil MacKinnon (SH 1917–1921) (Deceased) and father of Neil A MacKinnon (Gl 1977–1982) and of Michelle MacKinnon-Rae (Ar 1989–1991). He was head of Glencorse, in the 1st XV, captain of the Shooting VIII, in the Fives, the Pipe Band and a Petty Officer in the Corps. In his National Service he was commissioned in the Navy, serving in the waters around Cyprus during the EOKA emergency. He then went up to Pembroke College, Cambridge where he was in the college XV and took a BA degree. He also enjoyed target shooting and, had he not given it up, would have gained a half-blue. Subsequently, he attended Edinburgh University where he graduated LLB, joining the WS Society in 1962. His working life was as a solicitor in the family firm in Oban, acting as a factor to many estates. He was Secretary of the Argyllshire Gathering and its Chief Steward, Clerk to the Lieutenancy of the county and, from 2002 to 2011, Lord Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, for which the Queen appointed him Commander of the Royal Victoria Order. He continued his naval connection in the RNR, reaching rank of Lieutenant Commander and he helped to raise considerable sums for Macmillan Cancer Relief as Chairman of the Oban branch winning the President’s Medal as a reward.

Kenny’s main recreation was sailing, particularly cruising West Highland waters in his boat, Clandara, with Andrew Porteous (CE 1950–1955) and Bruce Weir (Lord Weir, Chairman of the Fettes Governors (1989–1996)) as crew. He also enjoyed rough shooting and stalking. From 1988 to 1990 he was President of the Old Fettesian Association. In 1963 he married Clare and they had three children, Neil, Nicola and Michelle. They have three grandchildren and in January 2023 Kenny became a great grandfather. Clare died in 2020 and for most of the rest of his life Kenny lived in Edinburgh. While spending time in his home in Oban his health deteriorated and he died in hospital there. Kenneth Mackinnon was a fine, straightforward person of distinction, who gave considerable service to others, and a loyal Old Fettesian. There was a fine service celebrating his life at an Edinburgh crematorium on 15th May which representatives of both the King and the Princess Royal attended.

IAN S WEIR (CW 1948–1954)

Ian S Weir passed away after a long illness on 9th December 2022, age 87.

Whilst at Fettes Ian was a cadet in the CCF and participated in athletics, notably he was 4th in the Open Class Shot Put in Summer 1953, and 4th in the Discus in Summer 1954. In swimming he achieved his Bronze Cross

Life Saving Award and an award of merit. Academically he received the Form prize for English in 1952.

He chose to send his own children, C Erica S Pomeroy (née Weir) (Gl 1978–1980), Lois F S Pelham-Lane (née Weir) (Gl 1980–1982) and Ralph Weir (JS-Mo 1978–1985), to Fettes. Ralph’s wife, Lucy Weir (CE 1987–1989) (née Livingston) is also an Old Fettesian, as is one of Ian’s granddaughters, Ellie E P Pomeroy (Ar 2008–2013)

He continued to have an international life living across the world in Sri Lanka, South Africa, Belgium, Nigeria, France and the UK.

He is survived by his wife Alison, their three children and five grandchildren.

ALEXANDER (SANDY) C LIDDELL (CA 1949–1954)

Alexander (Sandy) C Liddell passed away on 27th April 2022, aged 86.

At Fettes Sandy was in the Athletics team. In the summer of 1954 he won both the Mile and the Half Mile in the Open Class and came 3rd in the Quarter Mile in his final School Sports Day. Sandy’s brother William Liddell (Ca 1952–1956) also came to Fettes.

After Fettes, Sandy did his National Service in the Royal Signals before becoming an insurance broker.

GEORGE W D LESLIE (CA 1949–1952)

George W D Leslie passed away on 8th July 2022 peacefully at his home in Kirkwall, Orkney, aged 88. Family connections with Fettes include his cousins, Eric Graham (Gl 1970–1975) (Deceased) and Barbara Graham (Gl 1975–1977) as well as nephew Patrick Goddard (Ki 1979–1981).

George looked back on his time at Fettes as being character-forming, made personally difficult by having had polio and losing the use of his left arm prior to joining the school. The majority of his life was spent as an inventor and he used to recall, whilst at Fettes, carrying out his own experiments in the chemistry labs, resulting in an explosion and a fire at one point.

Throughout his life he kept in touch with fellow Fettesian, John Leith (Gl 1948–1951)

After Fettes he attended Aberdeen University, graduating with a B.Sc. in Agriculture.

Following this he worked in Kenya as a Maths teacher and then moved on to live and work in South Africa in computer systems; it was here that he met and married his beloved wife, Sandra.

Family was everything to George, he moved to live in Orkney with Sandra and their two young children, who were soon joined by two further siblings. George leaves his wife of 55 years, along with their four children and nine grandchildren, all much inspired by his positivity, love and inventiveness.

David attended Fettes alongside his brother William W Mather (CW 1949–1952) (Deceased)

The following was published in The Scotsman: ‘MATHER David Crawford (Milne Garden, West Mains) Peacefully, on July 17, 2022. Devoted husband to the late Ann. Dearly loved dad, grandad and great-grandad.’

WILLIAM (BILLY) J A STEEL (GL 1949–1954)

William (Billy) J A Steel passed away on 7th January 2023, aged 86.

This following was written by his friend, William Carnegie (Ca 1950–1955): In his last school report, his Housemaster, Tom Goldie-Scott, wrote ‘Billy is a survivor’, a prescient comment considering that, despite the roller coaster nature of his subsequent life, he made it almost to 87. At Fettes he was a House Prefect, wicket keeper in the XI, a member of the Hockey team and Lance Corporal in the Corps. After school, during National Service, he was commissioned in the Royal Horse Guards (the Blues) serving in Cyprus during the EOKA uprising against the British rule. There, at one point, he had General Georgios Grivas, its leader, in his sights but, when he pulled the trigger, his Bren gun failed to go off, a lucky escape for the Cypriot! He then went up to Oxford, to St Edmund Hall, where he won a ‘Blue’ for golf in 1958 and 1959. In the first of these, in the foursomes at Rye, he created history by playing against, and beating, his brother, Donald Steel (Gl 1950–1956), who was playing for Cambridge.

Billy joined the financial company, United Dominions Trust, and continued to play golf, amongst others for the Old Fettesians, notably as a member of the team which won the Halford Hewitt in 1964. He also got married to Jane Wadia, with whom he had a daughter and a son. But then things began to go wrong. From merely social drinking he turned to alcohol as a necessity, becoming an addict with fatal consequences to both his career and his family life. After many years of misery, with help from ‘Alcoholics Anonymous’, he managed to take himself off the drink and remained sober for the last 40 years of his life. During this time he supported the ‘AA’ by participating in its meetings and by encouraging others to use its services. Also, in about 2010 he wrote The Power of Powerlessness, an account of the addiction as it had affected him, but with an uplifting message of hope for both alcoholics themselves and for others whose lives were affected by it.

DAVID C MATHER (CE 1949–1952)

David C Mather passed away on 17th July 2022, aged 86. David was in the 4th XI Hockey team and competed in the Inter-House Football and Boxing competitions. He won the Welter-weight Boxing medal in 1951–52 and was awarded a Bronze medallion in the 1950 Life Saving examinations.

For a number of years Billy made an annual visit to Scotland and spoke to schools including Fettes about his experiences as an alcoholic. He did so in a pleasantly relaxed and engaging way without suggesting that alcoholism was not a serious matter. Thus, from somebody who had suffered from it, the students learned about it in a far more telling and effective manner than being lectured by their teachers.

Billy Steel was an engaging character whose life was upset considerably by an addiction to alcohol. However, by his own determination and with help from others he overcame it and used the rest of his days for the benefit of those who suffered from it. It is a pleasure and a privilege to have known him. He leaves his widow Sarah, his children Charlotte and Charles, and three grandchildren.

JIM S HELM (MO 1950–1955)

Jim S Helm passed away on 27th December 2022, aged 85. At Fettes, Jim took part in the Inter House Boxing Competition in 1951 and he gained the Royal Life Saving Society Bronze Medallion. He was also a member of the Reel Society and an Army Cadet in the CCF. Jim’s daughter-in-law Tania Helm (née Kilpatrick) (Da 1984–1986) also attended Fettes.

ANDREW J A HOBSON (MO 1950–1954)

Andrew J A Hobson passed away on 15th September 2022, age 86.

Andrew’s daughter Jane wrote to tell us that her father’s time at Fettes was hugely important to him.

Andrew was born in 1936 in Sri Lanka (Ceylon as it was then) where he spent much of his childhood living on tea plantations. During the Second World War he attended Bishop’s College School in Colombo, and subsequently the Hill School in Nuwara Eliya. In 1950 he won an Open Exhibition to Fettes College and travelled to Scotland, close to Scottish family and friends. After National Service in Ayr, Andrew read History at Christ Church, Oxford, which was the foundation of his life-long interest in history. He then moved to London and joined the Civil Service. He became an Inspector of Taxes and a specialist in Corporation Tax, working for the Inland Revenue until his retirement. He volunteered actively in his local community for many years, especially after retirement.

Andrew married Sarah Porter in 1970, which is when he made Wimbledon his home. He had one child, his daughter Jane, and was always highly committed to family life. More recently, he was delighted to become a grandfather to Blessing.

Andrew enjoyed art, making the most of all London has to offer as well as painting his own watercolours. A keen walker, he knew all corners of Wimbledon Common, explored the City of London on foot and enjoyed regular Alpine holidays. His love of travel took him on many archaeological and historical tours as well as visits to his daughter while she was living and working overseas.

Andrew held lifelong affection and respect for Sri Lanka, the country of his birth and childhood. He was an active member of the Friends of Sri Lanka Association, and in 1996 returned to Sri Lanka with Sarah and Jane to revisit his childhood homes. Jane has set up a fundraising page in memory of her father to support people living and working on tea plantations in Sri Lanka. For anyone who would like to make a donation, this can be found at: tinyurl.com/ AndrewHobson

During his retirement he was a regular at the OFA Glasgow Lunch and other reunion events.

ALAN R MATHER (CW

1950–1953)

Alan R Mather passed away on 17th January 2023, aged 86. Whilst at Fettes, Alan was the Captain of Riding, a member of the Science Society and was also a Cadet in the RAF section of the CCF.

The following was published in the CA Magazine:

‘He trained with A&J Robertson, qualifying in 1959. He was self-employed in practice when he retired and was living in Crieff at the time of his death.’

GRAHAM B A WATT (KI 1950–1955)

Graham B A Watt passed away on 8th September 2022, aged 85.

Graham joined his brother Eric Watt (Ki 1947–1951) (Deceased) at Fettes. Graham was a House Prefect, he was in the Athletics team, the 3rd XV, the Debating Society and the Choir. The Fettesian of 1955 notes: Many will remember the three Gilbert and Sullivan trios from Princess Ida and The Mikado as sung by A. W. M. Bain, G. B. A. Watt and A. M. L. Potts with just the right light-hearted energy.

After Fettes Graham went to Glasgow University and did an arts degree followed by a law degree. He then undertook a legal apprenticeship before starting a business career with Coats Viyella. He worked across the globe with the business in Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey and South Africa. He then worked for the Lilley Group and for Scottish Power before retiring and throwing his work ethic into life in the Borders. He was Chairman of the Governors at St Mary’s School Melrose from 1994–1998 and Vice Chairman of the Borders General Hospital from 1995–1999. The following was published in The Herald: ‘Graham died after a short illness in The Borders General Hospital. Much loved husband of Carol, father of Pip and Nick, father-in-law of Claudine and grandfather of Milo and Sebby.’

IAN L CRAIG-WOOD (KI 1951–1957)

GEORGE M LANHAM (CE 1950–1953)

George M Lanham passed away on 24th March 2023, aged 86. George came to Fettes in 1950 and left after three years at the age of 16. Whilst at Fettes he was a keen swimmer achieving his Royal Life Saving Society Bronze Medallion. He undertook his National Service in the RAF 1954–1956 and then began an international career in global finance and banking spending much time in South America. He retired to Prestwick in Ayrshire where he enjoyed playing golf.

Ian L Craig-Wood passed away on 8th July 2022, aged 83. At Fettes, Ian participated fully in every aspect of school life. He was Head of School, Head of House, in the 1st XV, in the Shooting VIII and a member of the Choir and Orchestra. He was also Secretary of the Music Club, President of the Science Society, President of the Paramaecium, President of the Cabal and a member of the Dramatic Society. He was a Flight Sergeant in the CCF and, in 1956, won a Governors’ Prize for Music. Ian was made President of the Hyperon Society when it was formed in 1957. He gained an Open Exhibition in Natural Sciences at Emmanuel College, Cambridge. Ian’s brothers Dougal (Ki 1954–1958) (Deceased), Peter (Ki 1957–1961) and Rick (Ki 1959–1964) (Deceased) all attended Fettes.

ANTHONY G N CROMBIE (MO 1952–1957)

Anthony G N Crombie passed away on 30th September 2021, aged 82.

Anthony was a House Prefect and he was in the 1st XI Hockey team. He excelled at athletics winning the Open mile record in 1957 with a time of 4:35.3 earning him the Old Fettesian Cup for the best individual performance of the Sports. In that year he also won the Scottish Schoolboys Athletics Standard Medal. He was in the 2nd XV, a Sergeant in the CCF and he was also a school librarian. He was joined at Fettes in 1954 by his brother Richard E F Crombie (Mo 1954–1959). Both brothers settled in Australia.

MICHAEL G B STARKE (KI 1952–1956)

Michael G B Starke passed away on 26th July 2022, aged 84.

At Fettes, Michael was in the Golf team, the 4th XV and the Swimming team. The following was written by his daughter, Debbie:

He did his National Service in the Navy and then went into the family business as a director import and export eventually becoming Manager Director. He continued to be active in this company until he sadly passed away.

Mike was married to Maureen for 55 years, who he met on a skiing holiday. They were an ideal couple. They worked and lived together spending very little time apart. They had two children, Iain and Debbie and one granddaughter Lucy.

Mike loved parties as a host or attendee.

He also loved to travel with Maureen, their favourite places were New Zealand and Vancouver Island. They loved the Black Forest in Germany, where they went on walking holidays.

Mike was a vice president of Southend Rugby club and in semi-retirement became a district counsellor. He was on the local selection committee for MPs. He was head of environmental issues and made some great changes locally in Essex.

In the last 30 years he had many health issues. He was a fighter and led a full life.

Michael will be remembered for the kind, gentle, reliable, and honest man that he was and will be missed by his family and everyone who knew him.

JOHN A D INNES (GL 1953–1958)

John A D Innes passed away on 8th November 2022, aged 82. At Fettes in 1956 John was joined by his brother Richard Innes (Gl 1956–1960). John was a House Prefect and a talented musician becoming Leader of the Orchestra in 1957–1958. He was also President of the Paramaecium and Leading Seaman in the CCF. He left Fettes to study Law at Fitzwilliam, Cambridge. He became a solicitor in Scotland where he worked for much of his life. When he retired he became the Honorary Treasurer for the Fet-Lor Boys Club.

John was part of a Fettes succession family started by his grandfather, John Innes (SH 1883–1877) (Deceased), followed by his father Richard Innes (Ca 1914–1919) (Deceased) and his uncle Andrew Innes (Ca 1912–1916) (Deceased).

The winter term began as Hugh and I entered Carrington House having travelled from the west of Scotland. Hugh had previously attended Belmont House School and myself at Crawfordton House in Dumfriesshire.

I vividly remember one of our first discussions was comparing both schools and the discovery that we were both taught dancing by the same teacher – a very formidable Miss Hazeldine.

As time progressed our friendship grew and we both played our part in the House games of rugby and cricket following in the strong Fettes and largely victorious tradition at that time. Hugh joined the army section of the CCF which paraded every Wednesday afternoon after lunch along with the Naval and RAF sections.

Hugh and I met frequently during the school holidays and it became obvious that Hugh’s interest was going to be in either motor car sport or sailing and preferably with his own yacht. Sailing opportunities at Fettes in the mid 1950s were not in much demand and were limited in availability.

Shortly after leaving Fettes in 1956 Hugh and I entered for the ‘Rest and Be Thankful’ speed hill climb which was popular with well known car rally enthusiasts such as Jim Clark and Jimmy Stewart (elder brother of Jackie). Hugh became eligible for National Service and spent two years with the REME section where he was part of a motor display team. The job also entailed helping with the ‘Horse of the Year’ show at Olympia where the entire crew were paid with cigarettes! After National Service he joined the family company of Plumbers Merchants in Glasgow and was subsequently joined by his son Chris.

Hugh’s business commitments took him all over the west of Scotland and the islands and his passion for sailing soon came to the fore when he bought his first of three boats all named Quaila and took part in the many races organised by the Clyde Cruising Club. Such was his enthusiasm for the sport that he was invited to become a board member of the RYA, on which he served for many years as well as other notable sailing clubs such as the Mudhook Yacht Club where he was given honorary membership. He was always more than willing to share his knowledge of sailing particularly with those of school or university age. If the ‘wind blew’ setting the sails would be his first choice of propulsion.

Over the years, since retirement I have enjoyed being part of his crew on many voyages on the west coast. Camaraderie was always present along with the enjoyment of Hugh’s once a week special ‘cooked breakfast’.

Hugh has left a legacy for the sailing world that few can match. This was evident at his funeral in Glasgow where the numbers were so great that there was ‘standing room’ only. He will be greatly missed by his wife Sue and family and his many friends in the sailing world.

HUGH F MORRISON (CA 1953–1956)

Hugh F Morrison passed away on 10th February 2023, aged 83.

The following was written by James Lawson (Ca 1953–1956), who met Hugh at Fettes in 1953:

Hugh sadly died on 10th February 2023 in a hospital in Glasgow after a short illness.

JAMES (PETER) P SHAW (CA 1953–1958)

James (Peter) P Shaw passed away on 27th November 2022, aged 81.

Peter was a House Prefect and was a key member of the 1st XV playing for three seasons. He was in the Basketball team and Athletics team. He was Company QuartermasterSergeant in the CCF.

He attended OF reunion events in Yorkshire and attended Commemoration Weekend in 2013 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Newmen of 1953.

LESLIE MCMORRIS (CW 1954–1960)

Leslie McMorris passed away on 9th March 2023, aged 81.

At Fettes Leslie was Head of House, played in the 1st XV and was a strong cricket player. He went on to Christ’s College, Cambridge to study Engineering. He played rugby at Cambridge achieving a Blue. His engineering career took him to many countries before he retired to Yorkshire.

DAVID L SEAGER PHD (GL 1954–1959)

David L Seager PhD passed away on 26th June 2022, aged 81.

David is the grandson of Lewis C Grant (Gl 1894–1897) (Deceased). At Fettes, David was a House Prefect, in the 1st XV and 1st XI Hockey teams. He was also a keen member of the Athletics Team performing particularly well in the 880 yards. In 1959, he set a new record of 2 minutes and 1.1 seconds which knocked over three seconds off the previous record set in 1950.

JAMES (JIM) A P SHACKLETON (KI 1954–1958)

James (Jim) A P Shackleton passed away on 14th September 2022, aged 82.

At Fettes Jim was a School Prefect and excelled at sport. He was in the 1st XV, the 1st Hockey XI and the 1st Cricket XI as well as breaking the 220yd record in Athletics with a time of 23.9 seconds.

The following was written by Donald Steel (Gl 1950–1956): Jim Shackleton, forever just Shack, was one of the youngest ever to play international rugby, the first of seven caps for Scotland coming a week before his 19th birthday in 1959. There were, in fact, three Fettesians in the same team, Frans ten Bos (Gl 1951–1955) (Deceased) winning the ball in the lineout and Gordon Waddell (Ca 1950–1956) (Deceased) feeding passes to his dashing new centre.

Shack’s seven caps spanned six years. One notable result was the 0–0 draw with New Zealand at Murrayfield in 1964 but, in his final match in 1965, he scored the winning try against South Africa. He was equally proud of victory over France in Paris in 1963.

There were those who felt he was unlucky not to have been picked more often, but his most notable successes were in the golden 1960s decade of London Scottish not least in the 7-a-side version at which they excelled. They were successful five years out of six in the Middlesex Sevens at Twickenham and once in the Melrose Sevens, the birthplace in 1883 of the game’s popular off-shoot.

However, rugby wasn’t the only string to his sporting bow. An accurate clue to his speed was a School-recordholding dash in the 200 yards on Sports Day. He was almost as quick between the wickets in white flannels even if my main memory of his cricket was bittersweet. In our first visit to Durham School, Shack supplied the only crumb of comfort on an otherwise doleful day.

Batting at 8 in his second summer in Kimmerghame, he was undefeated on 45 out of a measly total of 119, full credit to the opposing captain, Mike Weston, the multi-capped centre for England at rugby and, no doubt, occasional opponent of Shack. Altogether, Shack played in the 1st XI Cricket team for two more years plus two for the 1st XI Hockey team, although, for many like me, hockey was the stop gap between rugby and cricket, an option much preferred than the School Run.

For a few years after leaving school in 1958, our paths crossed only occasionally, but Denham Golf Club was responsible for a friendship renewal in 1966 thanks also to the fact that Denham could, at that time, boast a XV of past internationals amongst its membership. Donald Crichton Miller used to say that Fettesians were the most loyal of Old Boys and nothing in my lifetime has stirred that loyalty more than playing in the Halford Hewitt. Golf is a wonderful way of fostering old friends and making new ones, a game for all ages that can be played almost anywhere. At what other game can the best play against the worst and still have a meaningful contest? What is more, it is the only active game you can play all by yourself.

Shack’s contribution was immense, principally in the form of an annual meeting at Denham every October for Old Fettesian golfers of all abilities, joined later by Lorettonians. His organisational skills for 40 years made it a gathering not to be missed. His own skills were not to be forgotten either. He made the Halford Hewitt team for a few years and was Captain and then President.

It is a strange confession that lengthy knowledge of people you know doesn’t necessarily include what they do for a living. Shack was an exception because he invited me to speak at a Building Alliance Golfing Society Dinner, something you can only do for an old friend. Had he not done so, I may never have known.

On another personal note, he was a great one for cornering you or ringing you up at length with ideas, suggestions and character assessments which he expressed with vigour. It was advisable simply to listen but, when news came of his passing at the end of a prolonged fight against cancer, which he faced with rare courage, the line went blank, and a bright light went out. Sadly, there is no known way to lighten the darkness.

SIR ROBERT WALMSLEY (GL 1954–1958)

Sir Robert Walmsley passed away on 4th August 2022, aged 81. At Fettes Robert joined in with many aspects of school life. He was President of the Hyperon Society, played regularly in the 2nd XI Cricket team with occasional matches for the 1st XI and he was a Bell Ringer. He was a keen scholar in the physics department under John C Naiff (Staff 1948–1973) (Deceased), whom he had great respect for. His brother, Dr Thomas Walmsley (Gl 1959–1964) also came to Fettes.

Robert left Fettes in 1958 with a scholarship to Royal Navy College, Dartmouth, before reading Mechanical Sciences at Queens’ Cambridge. Whilst at Cambridge he gained a rowing blue, he coxed the Cambridge boat to victory in the 108th Oxford and Cambridge boat race in 1962.

The following was published in The Times:

‘After completing training, he served in the aircraft carrier Ark Royal before converting to the submarine branch… In successive technical and MOD roles, he proved an intellectually gifted, highly able engineering specialist and an energetic, decisive influence. By 1981 he was chairman of the Naval Nuclear Technical Safety Panel… He was appointed as the Royal Navy’s director of operational requirements in 1987, he found himself responsible for determining the types of ‘platforms’ and ‘systems’ that would be needed at sea… Promoted to vice-admiral in 1994, he served as controller of the Navy, responsible at Admirality Board level for overseeing all procurement and acquisition.

‘Walmsley was selected to be Chief of Defence Procurement (CDP) from 1996 until his retirement in 2003. During this time he transformed the organisation in to the Defence Procurement Agency and streamlined its processes and focussed its priorities.

‘When he retired in 2003, he spent time away from the defence sector… he joined the board of British Energy… the board of General Dynamics as well as being strategic advisor at Morgan Stanley. In addition, he was chairman of Universal Credit, a role which reflected his core beliefs that everyone should be encouraged to take personal responsibility for ‘living the best version of themselves’.

‘Until 2021 he was the Crown representative in the Cabinet Office, responsible for managing the relationship with defence companies that are classed as strategic suppliers…

‘Away from the procurement frontline, Walmsley did not stand on ceremony and was fun to be around. A man of integrity and a firm but quietly expressed faith, he was loyal to colleagues and friends.

‘Walmsley was married twice, first to Christina, from 1967 to 2009, with whom he had Emma, now chief executive of GlaxoSmithKline; Victoria a counsellor and drama therapist; and James, a barrister. In 2010 he married Alexandra Ashbourne who, together with his children, survives him.’

WILLIAM A LIMONT (MO 1955–1959)

William A Limont passed away on 11th September 2022, aged 80.

Whilst at Fettes, William received prizes in 4th Form for English and in his final year for English Essay. He assistant produced and played Widow Quinn in the school play The Playboy of the Western World. William also played football in the House Belows and was a member of the Debating Society. William’s father, Dr William Limont JP (Mo 1926–1929) (Deceased) also attended Fettes.

IAN H MACKENZIE (CW 1955–1959)

Ian H Mackenzie passed away on 28th April 2023, aged 81.

Ian’s school record shows a keen interest in writing from the outset. He was a Library Officer and won the Royal Commonwealth Society Essay Prize three times, the first when he was just 13 years old.

He kept in touch attending many OFA events and chose to send his sons Ian D MacKenzie (Inv-Ca 1991–1998) and Jamie E MacKenzie (Inv-Ca 1996–2003) to the school.

The following was written by his son, Jamie:

‘At Fettes he was a member of the Shooting team and spoke fondly of his time at the school. After Fettes, my father and his family moved to Canada where my father started his career as a journalist. He joined Reuters and then moved out to South East Asia where he worked in Cambodia, Hong Kong and also covered the Vietnam War. He then worked in Japan where he met my mother, Junko. They moved all around the world as a result of my father’s work as a foreign correspondent, living in places like China, Bahrain, Cyprus, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Indonesia. He lived a full and happy life and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.’

NIGEL G L ROBSON (CE 1955–1959)

Nigel G L Robson passed away on 26th March 2022, aged 80. Nigel was in College East, following his brother John L Robson (CE 1951–1956) (Deceased) to Fettes. He played in the 3rd XI Cricket team and was a Lance Corporal in the CCF. He left Fettes at the end of the Lower Sixth. During his life he built his successful farming business which is now being run by his sons.

He is survived by his wife Janice and his sons Stephen and Richard along with his four grandchildren.

Janice notes that he was a ‘much loved husband, father and grandfather’.

HUMPHREY (HENRY) J SPURWAY (KI 1955–1958)

Humphrey (Henry) J Spurway passed away on 6th April 2023, aged 81.

At Fettes Henry was an active member of the Natural History Society, so much so that he is thanked in the Fettesian for hand rearing four mallard ducklings in 1958.

He was an early recipient of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, achieving the Silver Standard and was a good runner, placing 4th in the Steeplechase in 1958.

He left Fettes mid-way through the Sixth Form to attend the Royal Agricultural College in Cirencester, later becoming a farmer.

He was followed to Fettes by his brother George H Spurway (Ki 1959–1961) who survives him.

CAPTAIN DONALD F MACDONALD (CW 1955–1959)

Donald F Macdonald passed away on 26th July 2022, aged 81. At Fettes Donald was Head of School. He was a sportsman and a strong rugby player, playing for the 1st XV from 1957–1959 and for the Scottish Schools XV. He also played in the College Fives team. He left Fettes for the Navy becoming a pilot and working in aviation. He was followed to Fettes by his brother William Macdonald (CW 1957–1959) He became a Fettes parent, sending his children, Rebecca Janson (née Macdonald) (Mo 1980–1982), Jared Macdonald (Ki 1980–1983), Robin Macdonald (JS-Gl 1980–1984) and Dominic Macdonald (Mo 1980–1985), to Fettes in the 1980s.

BRUCE R LUNDIE (GL 1956–1961)

Bruce R Lundie passed away on 28th February 2022, aged 79. Bruce was in the 3rd XV, the 2nd XI Hockey team and participated in athletics.

He attended some OFA reunion events including the Glasgow Dinner and Commemoration Weekend.

He chose to send his children Giles R D Lundie (Gl 1981–1986) and Ben M Lundie (Gl 1983–1988) to Fettes.

DAVID (RICHARD) R THORPE (CW 1956–1961)

David (Richard) R Thorpe passed away on 2nd February 2023, aged 79.

At Fettes Richard was Head of House and a School Prefect. He was in the Athletics team. He excelled at drama and had several key roles in school productions. He was in both the Dramatic Society and the Play Reading Society as well as the Paramaecium. He was a Sergeant in the CCF and was an assistant signalling instructor. He was an excellent writer winning the Bannatyne-Thomson Shakespeare Memorial Essay Prize for three consecutive years. He left Fettes for Selwyn, Cambridge in 1962.

The following was published in The Telegraph:

‘David Richard Thorpe – Richard to his numerous friends – was born on March 12 1943, the only child of Cyril Thorpe, a Yorkshire accountant, and Mary, née Avison, who was at school with Harold Wilson. Scotland became Richard’s adopted home after his mother’s remarriage, his father having died in 1946 at the very end of his war-time service in the Royal Navy.

‘At Fettes College in Edinburgh between 1956 and 1961, Richard became a lifelong protégé of the great Eric Anderson… Anderson instilled in him a deep love of English literature, which he read at Selwyn College, Cambridge.

‘After graduating in 1965, Thorpe taught briefly at Gordonstoun followed by a teaching career of more than 30 years at Charterhouse.

‘A passionate footballer, no less devoted to golf. His other great passions were the theatre and opera.

‘Richard Thorpe was one of the finest political biographers of his generation. He brought the meticulous, critical eye of the scholar to bear on an immense range of private political papers, including many which had not been consulted before. He wrote up the results of his research with great literary skill, winning the admiration of professional historians and a wide general readership.

‘He will be remembered in particular for his “prime ministerial triptych”, as he liked to refer to his lives of Anthony Eden, Harold Macmillan, and Alec Douglas-Home, the men who led successive Conservative governments following Churchill’s retirement in 1955.

‘Over a period of 35 years Thorpe interviewed all the major politicians and senior civil servants connected with them.’ from University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia in 1970.

He married Hazel Jean Cameron McLaren in 1971 and they went on to have four children.

Professionally, his career included time with Coudert Brothers in New York, Freshfields in London, American Express in New York before finishing the final two decades of his career working with former colleagues, who had started a boutique law firm that eventually merged into Day Pitney LLP, from where he retired in 2019.

He was an active member of the Rye Presbyterian Church, helped run and expand the Rye Youth Intramural Soccer Program, coached his son’s travel soccer teams and served on the Rye School Board of Education for six years. He was particularly proud of his strong support for the successful effort to keep Milton School open in the 1980s. Despite living in the USA for decades his love of Scotland never faded. Throughout his life he ensured that his family had lots of time in the UK with family and friends. In his final decades, he spent weeks attending various reunion events and paying visits to lifelong friends. His children are grateful for the connections that he helped keep strong and the time spent golfing, hiking and enjoying pints with family on the Isle of Arran.

Davidson was predeceased by his wife Hazel, who passed away in 1998, and is survived by his four children, Lorna Mary, Alexander, Ramsay, and Robert, five grandchildren, Oliver, Hazel, Penny, Alistair and Audrey, daughter-in-law, Erin, and two sons-in-law, Mark and Jeff.

JOHN G STEWART (GL 1957–1962)

John G Stewart passed away on 8th August 2022, aged 78. At Fettes John was in the Shooting VIII. He also enjoyed backstage roles supporting drama productions. He was involved in the school production of Othello in 1961 and was a painter for the Glencorse House Play, A Penny for a Song in 1962.

John’s father was an Old Fettesian, Athole J Stewart, OBE DFC 1924 (Gl 1924–1929) (Deceased)

IAN M M GRAY (KI 1958–1966)

DAVIDSON T GORDON (GL 1957–1962)

Davidson T Gordon passed away on 8th March 2023, aged 78 after a short battle with aspiration pneumonia.

Davidson was born in Aberdeen to parents Dr. Christie Wilson Gordon and Robina Alice Munro. He came to Fettes in 1957. He was in the Hockey XI and was in the swimming team. He was a keen member of the Debating Society and Cdt. RSM in the CCF. He was connected to Fettes throughout his life and was a loyal Trustee of Friends of Fettes College Inc. from 2004–2022. The following was written by Davidson’s family:

After Fettes he went on to study law at Birmingham University, receiving an LLB in 1965, before obtaining an LLM

Ian M M Gray passed away on 1st August 2022, aged 77. Ian followed his father Robert L M Gray (Ki 1928–1934) (Deceased) to Fettes. He rose to the top of the school becoming Deputy Head of School and Head of Kimmerghame House in his final year. He was Captain of the 3rd XV, he played 2nd XI Hockey and he was in the Athletics team.

MICHAEL (MIKE) J G CULLEN (CE 1959–1962)

Michael (Mike) J G Cullen passed away on 12th December 2022, aged 77.

During his time at Fettes, Mike was in the 1st XV and the Squash team. He was also in the 1st XI and in 1961, he won the Sandy Crawford Cricket Cup for best player in the 1st XI.

He was a member of the Pipe Band and Drum Major in the CCF. His brother Jonathan P Cullen (Ca 1971–1975) attended Fettes after Mike.

BRUCE L K RAE (GL 1960–1964)

Bruce L K Rae passed away on 30th July 2022, aged 75.

At Fettes Bruce won the 3rd Form prize. He played for the Colts XV. He enjoyed Long Jump, coming 3rd in the Class 2 Long Jump 1962 and 4th in the Open Class Long Jump in 1964. He proudly scored a try against Moredun in the Glencorse House Below Rugby XV in November 1963. Due to his enjoyment of classical subjects he was Secretary of the Symposium. After Fettes Bruce went on to become a solicitor and he enjoyed marathon running, opera and choral music.

Bruce was from a large family of Fettesians begun by his OF father Ian Rae (Gl 1929–1934) (Deceased) and uncles

Stanley Rae (Gl 1926–1931) (Deceased), Douglas Rae (Gl 1931–1937) (Deceased) and Bruce Rae (Gl 1935–1938) (Deceased). His cousins Ian Rae (Gl 1961–1965), Dougal Rae (Gl 1955–1959), Keith Rae (Gl 1978–1983), Alastair Rae (1984–1989) and Quentin Rae (Gl 1989–1994) also attended Fettes.

ANDREW M HUNTER (CA 1961–1964)

Andrew M Hunter passed away on 27th October 2022, aged 75.

Andrew was a relative of one of the very first pupils of the school, his great grandparent, Frank Hunter (SH 1870–1875) (Deceased). He had other OF relatives including his grandfather Evan Hunter (Ca 1900–1905) (Deceased), father Alan Hunter (Ca 1927–1932) (Deceased) and brother Evan Hunter (JS-Ca 1976–1979).

At Fettes he sang a solo in the school concert at St Giles’. He played cricket for the 3rd XI Cricket team and was a Rescue Party Leader in the CCF.

When Andrew was 15 there was a fire in Carrington; he raised the alarm enabling all 65 boys to evacuate unharmed.

Angus H Wood

(CW 1961–1966)

Angus H Wood passed away on 8th October 2022, aged 74.

At Fettes Angus was in the Chess Club and the 3rd XI Cricket team. The Fettesian of 1965 notes the arduous nature of the Chess Club which had meetings on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evenings, and on Sunday mornings along with competitions.

Angus followed his father Alexander Wood (SH 1918–1923) (Deceased) to Fettes. His brothers David Wood (CW 1951–1955) (Deceased) and Brian Wood (CW 1948–1952) are also Fettesians along with his nephew Andrew Wood (SH 1977–1982) and his nephew’s wife Rosie H Wood (née Law) (Ar 1982–1984)

The following was written by his brother, Brian: Angus left Fettes with no clear idea of what he intended as a career. He spent three months driving his friend and neighbour Gordon Brown to Livingston where they both worked as labourers on the construction of the M8 motorway. Angus applied successfully for a Civil Service post which he filled for two or three years arranging housing accommodation for military personnel and their families returning to UK as Britain withdrew from the Middle and Far East.

He then matriculated at Edinburgh University sponsored by the Civil Service to study politics and economics but after a few months changed course to study law with no sponsor. After completing his degree and an apprenticeship he qualified as a solicitor in 1974 and joined his father and two brothers in the family firm eventually becoming the senior partner.

Outwith the legal profession he had an interesting history. In 2008 he collapsed in Court and was fortunate to be taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. His aorta had bisected, and he was virtually kept on life support for nearly a year before receiving pioneering surgery by which much of his vascular system was reconstructed. He retired following a lengthy convalescence and two years back in his office before he set about becoming super-fit surprising and worrying family and friends by playing tennis and badminton regularly and golfing on every possible opportunity. He was highly competitive and usually successful playing competitively in Florida and Turkey and on every course for miles around. Angus also became a proficient and enthusiastic curler playing for a local club but also as Skip of the Fife Medics team with some success!

Angus is survived by his widow Rosemary, three children and five grandchildren, also by his brother Brian (me) and sister Lyndesay.

IAN (GRAHAM) G L MAITLAND (CA 1963–1968)

Ian (Graham) G L Maitland passed away on 5th July 2022, aged 72.

He went to the Police Training College straight after Fettes and had a distinguished career in the Police. He spent eight years in Special Branch before joining the CID Murder Squad where he received many commendations for his leadership, professionalism and detective ability in complex cases. Despite a recent illness he was delighted to be able to come back to Fettes for the Fettes Festival in May 2022 and join the London OF Drinks in London at the Reform Club in July 2022 as well.

During his time at Fettes, Graham was a keen sportsman, competing in the Junior Colts XV and many House competitions for Carrington before advancing to the 2nd XV. He also competed in the Golf team alongside his brother, William (Ted) L Maitland (Ca 1965–1970), who joined Fettes after Graham. Graham was a House Prefect and supported the 1966 Carrington House Play, The Tinker, as an electrician. Also in 1966, he scored the best result in his form on the General Knowledge Paper.

He went on from Fettes to study Biochemistry and then to work in the food industry. Graham is survived by his wife

Elaine along with his children and grandchildren. He is sorely missed by all who knew him.

BRUS K WATTERS (CE 1964–69)

Brus K Watters passed away on 14th August 2022, aged 71. The following was written by his brother, Ruairidh Watters (CE-SH 1969–1973):

Whilst at school, Brus was an excellent shot. He was in the school team for several years and became Captain of the Shooting VIII. He was also in the Scottish Schools Shooting Team. He won his colours often enough to be eligible to wear the shooting jacket. He was a House Prefect in College East. Brus was also an excellent scholar in modern languages and earned a place at St John’s Oxford, where he rowed and read Law.

Born in South Africa, he returned there upon graduating from Oxford. He won a scholarship and earned a second degree in Law at the University of Cape Town. He was a Prosecutor for the Department of Justice in Cape Town until he felt it was time to return to Britain.

He started work at Sherborne Preparatory School in Dorset and was the Classics Teacher and Director of Studies there from 1978 until he retired in 2010. During this time, he taught a variety of other subjects and coached the pupils at rugby, cricket and athletics, as is the way in prep schools, but perhaps one of his greatest successes was that his pupils actually looked forward to their Latin classes with him!

He travelled extensively but particularly enjoyed the Far East and visited his brother Ruairidh Watters there every year for more than 20 years.

He lived an active life in Sherborne amongst his many good friends and acquaintances until his untimely and unexpected death in August 2022, slipping away in his sleep. A plaque was commissioned by his friends which was affixed above his Stammtisch in The George, Sherborne. It reads ‘Aut bibat aut abeat’, a sentiment he would approve of greatly.

He will be much missed by his many friends and his family.

ADRIAN PENNY (GL 1968–1971)

Adrian Penny passed away on 7th January 2022, aged 65.

Adrian came to Fettes from Summerfields in Oxford after excelling in the Foundation exams. At Fettes he was a member of the Choir and in the School Play and he was an active member of the House Estates Group. As an Old Fettesian Adrian occasionally attended OF events in London.

The following was written by his daughter, Alex:

Adrian had a successful career in finance, his last role before retiring was COO for a finance organisation specialising in oil and gas. His experience from living and working in Canada in his earlier years, in particular the Canadian financial markets, enabled him to assist Canadian companies open and begin operations in London, shaped his career.

He was a very hard working, loyal, caring and generous man. Family was of the utmost importance to Adrian; he had three children, Alex, Justin and Andrew, he welcomed his first grandchild Edward in April 2021, and thankfully was aware a granddaughter was on the way too! Emily was born on Adrian’s birthday in January 2022 sadly just after he passed away.

Adrian’s passions outside of work included gardening, sports (particularly listening to cricket on the radio and watching rugby) and music. He is greatly missed by his wider family, being one of seven siblings, and he is always in our thoughts.

GRAHAM J BLOCKEY (AR 1969–1973)

Graham J Blockey passed away on 6th November 2022, aged 66.

The following was written by Graham’s good friend Gavin Douglas (Ar 1972–1974):

Graham came to Fettes in 1969, joining his older brother, Ian (Ar 1967–1971) then followed by his sister Fay Blockey (Ca 1976–1978). Graham was the son of renowned orthopaedic surgeon Noel Blockey. Graham and my paths joined when we were four years old at Dean House Preparatory School in Glasgow followed by Kelvinside Academy from 1961, ’til he left to join his brother at Fettes in 1969.

Graham was always eager for adventure and was naturally gifted intellectually. His father encouraged the outdoor pursuits of hill walking, canoeing, skiing and any other opportunity for exploration. Whilst Graham’s father was in Kenya in the 60’s, Graham spent a term with me when we managed to achieve mischief together like brothers forming a lifelong friendship.

When he left to go to Fettes in 1969, it surprised no one that the former dux at Kelvinside would skip a year. Once at Fettes, he continued to excel in acting as a Pseud, Sailing, Paramaecium, Science Society, Canoeing, was a Lance Corporal, House Prefect and achieved the Governors’ Prize for Science.

Once he left Fettes, to go to Newcastle University to study medicine, Graham’s sense of adventure persuaded me to join him in his mother’s Triumph Vitesse convertible on the North Coast 500, before it was a thing, camping at the side of the road on the way round with the understanding that if it rained, we should just drive faster rather than use the roof.

Before he left to start his new life in Newcastle, he was drawn back to Edinburgh to play his part in the Festival Fringe with a role in John McGrath’s Events While Guarding the Bofors Gun. At Newcastle Graham met his soul mate Christine, and by year three at Newcastle, Graham, Chris and I went out to dinner when he told me he was torn between acting and medicine but by the end of the evening he had agreed to finish his degree before he made up his mind. This was probably my greatest achievement with Graham, as it set him up for roles in casualty departments before a role in Casualty itself and many other smaller parts before landing the role in The Archers on Radio 4 providing the voice of Robert Snell in the BBC Radio 4 soap opera which would continue for 36 years. Actually, back in 1986 they wanted a new doctor, and some producer said, ‘Oh, I know an actor who is a doctor – let’s audition him.’ Graham auditioned for that and they said, ‘No, no, no, your voice doesn’t sound like a doctor. But we’ve got this other part for you.’ Remarkably, however, it wasn’t until 2017, that the star revealed to his GP surgery details of his ‘secret’ radio career. In retirement Graham was always looking for the more unusual things to do. He took Chris to India, and trekked in Nepal, he was very much the sort of person who was a motivating factor in their relationship. He was so well known in Dorking, you couldn’t walk through the town without patients coming up to him and he returned out of retirement to assist in his surgery during the Covid epidemic.

As well as husband to Christine, Graham was a muchloved father of two children Olivia, 38, and Jamie, 35.

ROBIN W FELL (MO 1970–1975)

Robin W Fell passed away on 9th October 2022, aged 65. Robin followed his brother David Fell (Mo 1966–1970) to Fettes. Robin was a School Prefect, he was in the 2nd XI Cricket team, the Athletics team and Cross Country team. He was in the 5th XV, the Natural History Society and was awarded the Begg Exhibition on Founder’s Day in 1975. He went on to become a chartered surveyor and to have a successful career in property, living and working in London. He founded Cheval Properties which subsequently became Helix Property. He leaves behind his three sons Hamish, Angus and Hugo.

FRANCIS W C C HUTCHINSON (MO 1977–1982)

Francis W C C Hutchinson passed away in October 2022, aged 58.

The following was written by Robin Shepherd (Mo 1978–1982) who shared a study with ‘Hutch’ in Moredun:

Francis W C C Hutchinson, arrived as a new man into the Third Form of Moredun in the winter 1977 from Moulsford Prep School in Oxfordshire.

Like many of the intake Francis had Moredunian relatives, his father Ian (Mo 1952–1956) (Deceased), his grandfather Charles (Mo 1908–1911) (Deceased) and great grandfather also Francis (Gl 1972–1875).

Hutch was a natural sportsman. He had a slim athletic physique powered by a seemingly inexhaustible supply of energy. Socially he fitted effortlessly into House with his cheery demeanour and relaxed manner. His generous and gregarious nature made him instantly popular in the Prep Room which echoed with his trademark crack of a laugh.

It wasn’t long before his athleticism came to the fore, proving his abilities on the old cinder track by beating the College under 15½ 1500m record on Sports Day. Hutch was also a key component of the Moredun victory in the interhouse relay competition the following year. In 1979, cheered on by the House, he swept through the Jordan pond and into Westwoods on the Ian Sutcliffe designed course to finish 1st in the Class 3 Steeplechase event.

It is no coincidence that Hutch’s arrival in Moredun heralded an unprecedented run of Steeplechase success for the House. During his five year tenure Moredun were winners of the Steeplechase Cup in every year, from 1978 through to 1982, winning all three classes of competition in 1979 and were placed first, second and third for the Class 2 event in 1980 with Hutch atop the podium. This was also the year he broke the Class 2 800m record and led the U16½ cross-country team to victory over Merchiston.

With a talented Millfield schooled tennis playing brother, a Swedish mother and regular holidays to his parents Florida ranch home it was little surprise that Hutch became a talent on court with something of a Björn Borg obsession. Bedecked in Fila clothing he appeared to spend every available minute of the summer term playing tennis, becoming one of the early Fettesian proponents of the double-handed backhand whilst helping Moredun win backto-back inter-house tennis cups in 1980 and 1981.

Despite his aversion to training and a questionable conditioning regime, Hutch continued to notch up some impressive results. Hutch attained a very credible 3rd place at the Scottish National’s leading Fettes to their first ever podium finish. Back on home turf he was part of the 1982 Moredun team that won the inter-house 1-mile relays breaking the college record in the process.

Hutch had a similarly laissez-faire attitude towards his future. On leaving Fettes he worked for a photography studio in Oxfordshire before moving to the States and, rather belatedly, enrolled with the University of Central Florida in Orlando to study Radio & TV Journalism in the early 1990s. Upon graduating he joined a local NBC affiliate news station as an editor and later a producer. However horses were the love and focus of his life. He barrel raced quarter horses to a very high standard and with great success whilst also caring for ageing racehorses including a Kentucky Derby winner. When he left Florida and returned to the UK in the early 2000’s he transferred these skills back to the hunting field. For the last 20 or so years of his life Hutch settled down on the edge of Dartmoor where he had memories in a landscape he loved, enabling him to ride out with the South Devon Hunt as frequently as possible. At the time of his death he was looking forward to the prospect of becoming Joint Master of Foxhounds.

His last Fettesian foray was to Commem in 2022, a joyous and happy affair, where he was reunited with class mates many of whom he hadn’t seen since leaving in 1982. Unbeknown to all but a few close friends Hutch had been dealing with Type 1 diabetes for a number of years which only a few weeks later led to the circumstances from which he sadly didn’t recover.

FIONA G SMITH (NÉE WHITE) (CA 1980–1982)

Fiona G Smith (née White) passed away on 14th January 2023, aged 58.

Fiona came to Fettes in 1980 and was a real all-rounder, participating in Fettes life to the full. She was a much-valued sports player and was in the Girls Hockey XI for the two seasons she was at Fettes from 1980–1982, she was also a very valuable tennis player and in the team in both summer 1981 and 1982 and in the Lacrosse XII in 1982. She achieved her Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award, was in the School Play and participated in Outside Service.

After Fettes, Fiona graduated with a History degree from Dundee University before working for Scottish and Newcastle for many years, becoming a Pensions and Investment Manager; and then more recently a Resources Manager at Mary Erskine. Fiona was very happily married to Rodney since 1990 and had a daughter Jessica. As a family they lived in Texas for several years in the late 90s and early 2000s before returning to Edinburgh. Fiona continued to travel around the world and the UK, enjoyed hillwalking normally with a Labrador in tow, was a great foodie, and an ardent Edinburgh Festival attender and supporter of the arts in general. We are sad to report that she had a battle with cancer in recent years, unfortunately passing in January 2023.

DAVID G ALLARDICE (MO 1978–1984)

David G Allardice passed away in Hong Kong on 11th November 2022, aged 57.

The following was written by his friend, James Barbour-Smith (JS-Ca 1976–1984):

David always said that Fettes taught him to open his eyes to the outside world and not to take everything at face value. David and I shared the Govenors’ Prize for Economics and it was in that last year at school that we really became friends.

In 1986 we decided to spend the summer travelling from London to Hong Kong by train and then explore a bit of South East Asia. Why London to Hong Kong by train? Because at that time it was the longest train journey in the world and we didn’t know anyone that had done it before! This was before the Iron Curtain had come down so it gave us a fascinating insight into Communist Russia and China. The altercation with the Soviet military police in Ulan Bator in Mongolia was the most extreme of several adventures. This trip was ultimately a defining period for David. While he went back to Reading University and then went into banking and fund management he quickly returned to work in Asia with his home becoming Hong Kong, though he worked all over the region.

Eventually he tired of the finance world and realised what he really wanted to do was to travel and to organise extraordinary travel experiences for others. He set up Eastern Journeys with the opening lines of his marketing pitch being that original 1986 trip.

He returned to Fettes for the 30 year reunion dinner and that was when we plotted the sequel to London to Hong Kong, thus in 2016, 30 years after the original expedition, we met in Beijing to travel on to North Korea.

Travel was his passion. Sadly by 2016 he was already ill and then was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) which transitioned into terminal Acute Myeloid Leukemia. As the MDS developed he returned to Scotland a few times and discovered the delights of sitting in Findhorn on the Moray coast just watching the world go by while away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.

DR KIA SOONG TAN (CA 1979–1984)

Dr Kia Soong Tan passed away on 5th July 2022, age 56. At Fettes, Soong was a School Prefect, in the 4th XV and in the Swimming team. He was also in the Badminton team and the Royal Engineers Sub Aqua Section. He was awarded several academic prizes including Fourth Form Prizes in December and July 1981, a Fifth Form Prize in July 1982, the McGregor Science Prize also in 1982 and two Governors’ Prizes in 1984 in Physics and Chemistry. Soong attended Fettes alongside his cousins Kia Joo Tan (Ca 1980–1983) and Kia Pheng Tan (Ca 1979–1984)

The following was written by James Barbour-Smith (JS-Ca 1976–1984):

Soong was born in Taiping, Malaysia and came to Fettes with his two cousins Kia Pheng and Kia Joo. Quite a shock from the heat and jungles of Malaysia to cold winters in Edinburgh. I well remember the first time he saw snow; the delight did not last that long.

It was at Fettes he began his lifelong love of Scotland. He went on to study medicine at Glasgow University. Later he focused on respiratory medicine. His work on asthma and female hormones resulted in him being awarded his MD thesis and his group published important papers in the Lancet, the British Medical Journal and several respiratory journals. Soong was interviewed for radio on the subject as well as having a top spot in Cosmopolitan magazine!

After marrying Linda, who had been at medical school with him, the two of them went to work in Dunedin, New Zealand. On returning to Glasgow, Soong became a consultant in respiratory medicine at University Hospital Wishaw.

In early 2021 Soong became unwell with prostate cancer. It appeared that the treatment had been successful but sadly the cancer had spread, and he passed away in July 2022. He will be a sad loss both to the medical community and his many friends. Few will forget his boundless enthusiasm and almost permanent smile. He leaves behind Linda and their two sons Andrew and Jonathan.

MAX RASMUSEN (MO 2011–2013)

Max Rasmusen passed away on 13th July 2022, aged 27. At Fettes, Max played in the 1st XI Football team and gained a bronze award in the UK Senior Mathematical Challenge.

Max attended Fettes alongside his brother Lewis (Mo 2009–2014), with their younger brother Stewart (Mo 2014–2019) following shortly afterwards.

CAMERON D REID (PS-MO 2014–2020)

Cameron D Reid passed away on 16th November 2022, aged 20.

The following was written by his former Housemaster, Henry McCowan Hill (Staff 2009–present):

Cameron dealt with more adversity in his short life than most will ever deal with and yet he did so through courage and determination that was truly humbling. His smile was ever present and, even when times were tough, he always managed a wry grin. He was a much-loved member of Moredun and the wider Fettes community and had an instant impact on everyone he met. His teachers loved having him in their classrooms and, reading through his old reports, comments like “he has always behaved in an impeccable manner and is a model student” and talk of Cameron’s “conscientious approach” are everywhere to be seen. “He has tackled each and every piece of work with focus and tenacity” seems a particularly fitting sentiment.

Cameron loved cricket and was a devoted follower of the game. The strategies required; patience, resilience and grit went with his own experience of life. In the end the attack was too much, but what an inspirational and courageous innings. We could all do with taking a lesson from Cameron’s book.

Former Staff and Friends of Fettes

ROBIN L CROLE (STAFF 1957–1967)

Robin L Crole died on 22nd November 2022, aged 95. Robin was the middle of three brothers educated by Kurt Hahn at Gordonstoun. He joined the Staff in 1957 and rapidly made his mark, running the Navy Section and coaching games. He was appointed Housemaster of Glencorse in 1964. He left Fettes in 1967 to teach at Geelong Grammar School in New South Wales, Australia. He later returned to the UK and was a lecturer at Salisbury College before retiring to the Borders where he lived happily. He died after a short illness, aged 95 years, beloved husband of Patricia, dearly loved father of Hugh, Kitty, Christopher and Claire and loving grandfather.

ROGER ELLIS (GOVERNOR 1983–1994)

Roger Ellis passed away on 14th February 2023, aged 93. Born in 1929 Roger Ellis was educated at Winchester College where he won a scholarship to Trinity College, Oxford to read History. Afterwards he began a teaching career at Harrow. He soon rose through the ranks to Housemaster. He spent a total of 15 years at Harrow before becoming Headmaster of Rossall in Lancashire. In 1972 he moved on again to become master of Marlborough. At Marlborough he made changes, introducing a summer school and increasing the number of girls at the school.

In the book The New Meritocracy by Mark Peel (Staff 1983–2007) Ellis was described as an old-fashioned Headmaster who adapted successfully to the modern era. His real legacy was the positive effect that extra girls had on Marlborough.

He became chairman of the Headmasters’ Conference and, upon leaving Marlborough, decided to live in London. He became a head of recruitment for Barclays Bank and chairman of the Governors of St Edward’s School, Oxford, as well as Governor of Harrow and of Fettes College.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Margaret and their children: Katherine, Hattie and Alex.

KATE EVELING (STAFF 1971–1996)

Kate Eveling passed away on 3rd September 2022, aged 86. The following was written by Robert Philp (Staff 1959–1996):

In the drive towards full co-education at Fettes after 1970, Kate Eveling was a key figure. The first woman to join the Common Room, she was the first female Head of Department, and for the next 15 years remained the only one. She then became a Housemistress when Schoolhouse –not for the first time – divided into College East and College West. As girl numbers moved steadily upwards in the 1970s, the importance of having their gender strongly represented on the staff was ever more important. Kate rose to this challenge.

Her opinions, strongly held and trenchantly expressed, compelled attention. Her radical social and political views were part of this, held in common with her remarkable husband Stanley, philosopher, critic, poet and playwright. It was an especially close relationship, marked by tempestuous flare-ups but deeply rooted and lasting. After Stanley’s death she became the devoted guardian of his legacy.

Kate threw herself into the life of the school from the start, and came to love it dearly, but she sometimes seemed bemused, given her egalitarian views, to find herself in such a privileged institution. This surfaced, to general amazement, in her retirement speech, which revealed a kind of remorse that she’d managed to spend more or less all her working life in such ‘posh’ surroundings.

Kate arrived in 1971 to teach Spanish and French. Her enthusiasm for the literatures of both languages inspired many generations. ‘I can still remember’, wrote one pupil, ‘the passion and emotion of reading Baudelaire’s love poems.’ Her teaching was matched by a strong pastoral instinct, and her concern for the welfare of those she taught was plain. ‘She acted like a mother to us’, wrote one. This instinct was important when she became Housemistress of College East in 1990, but so was her strength of character. One member of the House recalled: ‘She was a formidable lady, also very kind, very empathetic, and an incredible moral compass. I have tried to emulate her every step of the way. She was strong, intellectual yet compassionate, a touch of the bohemian with a tremendous sense of style.’

She was great company, and the natural focus of every group she was part of. Her conversation fizzed and sparkled. She was fascinated with language and took delight in conjuring up the mot juste. A natural competitor, she loved playing tennis, and golf at Gullane and Craigmillar Park.

After she ‘retired’ in 1996, it was by no means the end of her Fettes career. With all her talents, and two (or, when needed, three) languages to offer, she was soon being asked back to provide maternity cover. So, it went on, and when a Housemistress had to take leave, Kate was happy to take on a House as well. By the end, her period of service to the school covered overall nearly 40 years, a remarkable record.

All Kate’s children, Poppy, Ben, Sophie and Tom, were Fettesians, and to them we extend our warm condolences.

DR PETER F COSHAN (STAFF 1972–2005)

Dr Peter F Coshan passed away in August 2022, aged 75. Deep shock and sadness was felt by the Fettes community following the tragic end to the life of Dr Peter Coshan around the 11th August 2022. Peter was so much more than a tremendous teacher of biology: he was a supporter, a nurturer and a wonderful colleague. He introduced many to the hills through his enthusiasm for the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, which he ran for 33 years. Many tributes have been received which have been referenced and excerpts used to build this accolade to ‘Doc Cosh’ who was held in the highest regard by so many.

A service was held for Peter in Chapel immediately after his funeral on 26th October 2022. The Service was led by Rev. Peter Sutton (SH 1979–1984) and The Most Reverend Leo Cushley, Archbishop and Metropolitan of St Andrews & Edinburgh. Over 200 attended with very moving addresses from Tony Reeves (Staff 1983–2014) and from Ross Cook (Ca 1973–1978).

Nick Ridley (Staff 1972–1994) who was unable to attend the service wrote: ‘Peter was a real scholar, gentle, quietly spoken, totally unsporting. That is why, of course, in the prevailing Fettes ethos where all staff but the infirm were expected to be out on the playing fields coaching teams, Peter had the Duke of Edinburgh scheme bestowed upon him. He made a towering success of it, even if the idea of expeditioning, of boots and mud and sleeping under canvas and camp cooking was quite alien to him. We always enjoyed his return from supervising (possibly a generous term) a gold or silver expedition when he would regale us with a review of his chosen hotel and detail the many courses of cordon bleu cuisine that had so delighted him.

‘Peter was a born teacher: very able, very astute, very committed, quietly commanding, ever demanding of high standards, and with a wonderful sense of fun and humour. He could always see the funny side of pupils’ misdemeanours, of colleagues’ idiosyncracies, of headmagisterial folly. His sardonic style was most finely honed when, as President of Common Room, he bade farewell to departing colleagues. His incisive scrutiny of their style and performance was always, ultimately, generous, even if the route to this conclusion wandered down some of their errant by-ways, and was couched in terms of benevolent irony that had the Common Room in fits of laughter.

‘Peter was a schoolmaster beyond compare. His death was beyond understanding. Countless pupils, with many of whom he kept in touch after they had left, countless colleagues, countless friends will mourn his brutal and untimely passing.’

Peter is fondly remembered by his students: ‘Doc Cosh as we affectionately referred to him, was an inspiration especially with regard to Biology. His ability to transfer his knowledge, in combination with his humour, made the lessons something to look forward to.’ One stated: ‘Many of us at Fettes in the early years (1971–74) of Pete’s tenure valued the significant contribution and refreshing approach to our Biology studies with equally significant results’

For many Peter was remembered for his mentorship and encouragement beyond the classroom through Duke of Edinburgh or through extra-curricular societies and clubs. ‘He was very supportive and compassionate to me in a time when mental health wasn’t “a thing”. I recall his support and encouragement during my Duke of Edinburgh award and other activities.’

One former student explains clearly the effect of his compelling personality on the student community: ‘My memories of ‘Doc Cosh’ are of a well-liked and respected figure with a dry sense of humour and a quiet and understated authority in his ability to handle unruly teenagers. When you grow up in a boarding school, teachers have a particular presence in daily life, even if you never share a classroom. You hear about them through stories recounted by other kids with whom you share dormitories and sports pitches. As I recall, the stories about Doc Cosh were often relayed with laughter and a sense of camaraderie by those he taught.’

To end, a message from one former student that reflects the feeling of the Fettes community at large. ‘Peter remains in my memory as a wonderful man of compassion, mischief and warmth. He is greatly missed’.