David Gee: 1962– [Heath 1974–1981]

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that David Gee passed away on Monday 21 January 2013.

From a personal perspective, I have known David since school days, although he was in the year above me. From an early age he enjoyed sports and played in the school rugby and cricket teams. His contribution to school team sports was acknowledged when he was awarded the Victor Ludorum trophy at Heath Grammar School and his name was added to the roll of honour in the school main hall.

He had a great passion for music, particularly opera, and was a member of the Huddersfield Choral Society and this interest in music was also apparent in his school years. He was a member of the Heath School Choir during its heyday under Michael Hampshire, and often sang solo parts. The school choir recorded a programme for Pennine Radio in the 1970s and I remember David being interviewed during the programme. His singing talent landed him the role of Oliver in the mid 1970s in the Halifax Light Opera production of the musical which was performed at the Victoria Theatre, Halifax.

David studied modern languages at Liverpool University and after that worked at the Halifax Building Society as an Internal Auditor.

I came into contact again with David in the late 1980s though the Calderdale Tennis League and we played in the same team for the best part of 25 years. Although he played in the league last year, David was diagnosed with cancer towards the end of the season. He remained positive throughout his treatment, even into the last week. When telling me of his diagnosis he commented, Don’t worry, I don’t intend to croak it without a big fight!, a remark typical of his determination and fighting spirit. Sadly his positive attitude was not enough and he suffered complications during his treatment.

Those who met David on the tennis court may remember him as being very competitive. He was not afraid to speak his mind, but was always fair and showed appreciation for his opponents’ tennis ability. As a friend and tennis team mate he will be sadly missed.

Martin Haigh [Heath 1975–1982]