13-09-2013, 03:30 PM
We all thought Robert was recovering from removal of a liver tumour and a few email exchanges in the past week gave no clue that his health was deteriorating. That made the news of his passing all the more distressing. Robert was very much one of the 'good' guys, a chess fanatic who played in tournaments all over but still would give up his time to encourage others enjoy the game, both young and old. As Arlene says, he was a main player in inaugurating the NEJCA Inverness junior event and he was always the first there at the Chieftain Hotel preparing tables etc before we sluggards arrived. He would also be the last to leave as he checked that we left the place as we found it. Although a supporter of the local juniors he was always ready to welcome and help youngsters from all over and he derived enormous pleasure at seeing entrants from the likes of Lewis, Orkney and Scourie. He wanted others to obtain the same pleasure from chess that he had enjoyed throughout his life. A man quick to smile and who I never heard say a word in anger or criticise others. All in all a true gentleman and someone who will live in our memories forever. His loss will be mourned way beyond the Inverness area.