I would like to say a few words about my friend, colleague and golfing partner Paul.
Paul and I met about 35 years ago, when he replaced me as a thermal heat exchanger engineer for what was then Snamprogetti Ltd in Basingstoke. We continued our friendship meeting at the heat transfer society, attending the evening events and friendly annual dinners.
25 years ago Paul joined me at Foster Wheeler in Reading, where we were close colleagues, sharing each other’s knowledge on thermal design of heat exchangers. Paul was always ready and willing to help resolve the numerous technical challenges we encountered, of course with a little humour, “Carry on regardless” being a favourite saying.
During the 25 years we shared many experiences notably assignments to Thailand, which Paul and Caroline enjoyed immensely, embracing the colourful lifestyle. Paul also visited me in Malaysia to help with the high work load, but of course there was time for a few rounds of golf and may be a beer or 2.
Paul and I were always partners in the Foster Wheeler golf society. Our highlight of many of rounds of golf was an eagle on a par 5, where Paul hit the ball into the hole from 150 yards. We often talked about that special moment.
Paul was a hard-working, intelligent, caring and very thoughtful person. He was very close to his friends and family and had a lot of people who cared dearly about him.
It isn’t possible to put into words the importance of friendship and how much Paul meant to me. He influenced on my life in many ways and I will miss him greatly.
Paul, thank you for your friendship, I miss you. RIP
I would also like to share a few quotes from members of the Foster Wheeler golf society, Paul was the secretary for 3 to 4 years and an active member of the society committee for many more.
“I had drawn Paul in the knock out competition last year. In the car park of Maidenhead golf course, being the gentlemen he was he said he would forfeit the match as his commitments meant he could not play before the cut-off date. We agreed it would be decided by a toss of the coin which Paul won. So my last recollections of Paul are of him being both a gentleman and a winner.”
“We couldn’t help but laugh at the fact that even though Paul’s eye sight was poor, somehow he still managed to get around the golf course and know where his ball went, amazing!”
“He was just a super guy to spend a round / day of golf with, and I will miss him tremendously on all future FWGS events.”