Dr Geoffrey Kershaw

We have just been notified that Dr Geoffrey Kershaw (OB 1929) died on Wednesday 5th November, 2008.

 

Geoffrey came to Bilton in 1928 and was here for a comparatively short time before going on to Repton.  Thereafter, he pursued his studies in medicine at Clare College, Cambridge, and having qualified at St. George’s, Hyde Park Corner, served in the R.N.V.R. for the duration of the War.

 

On his return to civilian life he was appointed Medical Officer of Health for North East Warwickshire and at the same time remained in touch with the Navy via his duties as Medical Officer of the Midland Air Division at H.M.S. Gamecock, Bramcote.

 

In 1950 he was appointed Medical Officer at Armstrong Siddeley Motors, soon to become British Siddeley engines and finally Rolls-Royce, at both Coventry and Gloucester.  His duties included responsibility for the company’s aircrew.

 

After retirement in 1970 Geoffrey and his wife Valerie enjoyed a nine year spell of alternating between home and their flat in Gozo, and the benefit of Mediterranean weather instead of British winters.

 

He joined the Governing Body late in 1965 and after a period of two years was elected Chairman.  During his tenure of office, the Executive Committee was created in 1971 and the Development Fund Trust was established in 1974.  Notable events included the opening of both the Swimming Pool and the Art and Science Building.

 

He relinquished the Chair in 1976, remaining a member of the Executive Committee and a Development Fund Trustee, and was appointed a Foundation Governor in 1980.  Whilst he retired from being a Governor in  1989, he continued as a Development Fund Trustee and regularly came up by train to attend meetings of the Trustees up until shortly before the millennium.

 

Bilton was indeed very fortunate to have the benefit of his wisdom, judgement and keen understanding of both schools’ needs. 

 

He leaves two sons and a daughter; Timothy (OB 1951-56) David (OB 1956-61) and Priscilla (OB left 1957).


Tags: OB Society