We were very sorry to hear of the death of OB David Swain. David sadly passed away on the 3rd June 2017, his 79th birthday. David had been at the School between 1949 and 1954 where his love for rowing grew. For many years he had helped coach our Under 14 crews and he and his wife Pam were tireless workers for the Friends of BSBC during their son, Adam’s (96-03) time at the School. His funeral took place on the 19th June and was well supported by Bedford’s rowing community.
All our thoughts are of course with his family at this time. OBs will be interested to read the announcement released by the Star Rowing Club;
“It is with deep regret that I am writing to inform members of the death of one of the Club’s greatest supporters and a Vice President, David Swain.
Rowing in Bedford was entrenched in David’s DNA. He rowed for Bedford School in the early 1950’s, coached at the School and latterly at Star Club, where he became a highly respected and immensely dedicated member of the Star Junior’s coaching team. So many Junior athletes owe their success at the highest level to David’s ability to impart his knowledge in the quest to make their boats go faster. It was only due to failing health in recent years that David retired from the coaching duties that he enjoyed so much. He remained, however, an active participant in Club life; not least on keeping a watchful eye on his wife Pam and Jo French, when they took to the water in a double on weekday mornings. Victory for them at the recent Star Winter Head will have had its roots in listening to David’s gems of wisdom.
David was an enthusiastic Club member. He was a regular Thursday night diner and enjoyed good banter, laughter and an exploration of the guest beers until his illness turned him towards a glass of red wine. He was a generous supporter of the Club, donating as a Vice President and sponsoring events at the Star Regatta. If Vice Presidents were asked to help finance a particular cause, he never failed to respond. He was always ready to express a view on the management and direction of the Club, but always in a considered and appropriate manner. He was a true gentleman and a model Vice President.
He had dealt with so many health issues in recent years, but he always managed to retain a brave and optimistic outlook. His enthusiasm and zest for life will be sorely missed by the Club and even more by his loving family.”