It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of John Bathurst, aged 93, past President, Life Member and one of the few remaining “Greats” instrumental in securing the Club’s position in the annals of Hertfordshire hockey.
John died in June after a brave fight against Alzheimer’s and his Memorial Service was held in September in Southampton, his birth place, where he had strong affiliations with Hampshire hockey. He was the product of Richard Taunton School (now a 6th form College) where later he was Life President of Old Tauntonians (the old boys association) an honour of which he was rightly proud and where he honed his skill as an after –dinner speaker. The service at Highfield Church where he was married, adjacent to his old primary school was well attended by a number of OT’s, Welwyn members, family friends across the generations, ex neighbours of 70years ago and his extensive family … a fitting tribute
I remember him with much affection for the many shared hours as a man for all seasons as he devoted his life between Hampshire, where he was a member of Trojans HC, and WGC, a period when the family lived in St. Albans. His contribution to our club was almost without parallel having served as President 1986 -1993, Club Secretary, Men’s Captain and Team Captain He was a leader, caring and generous (he donated a new Honours Board)
His acting ability and infectious sense of humour were apparent with his drag act of Eartha Kitt in the men’s cabaret at the Ladies Annual Dinner in our KGV Clubhouse. Those were indeed the days! Another highlight of John’s tenure was his continued support of the Annual Challenge Match on President’s Day between the Men’s 1st.X1 and the President’s Team. Much heckling from the sidelines!
John’s wife Kathleen sadly passed away in January 2011 and he is survived by sons Jonathan and Nicholas and daughter Catherine to whom we send our sincere condolences.
Goodbye to a real gentleman who I was fortunate enough to call a friend.
Alan Smith Oct23