Colonel Alan Roberts, OBE KStJ TD DL
Colleagues will be sorry to learn of the death, on 1 December 2021, of Colonel Alan Roberts, former Pro-Chancellor of the University.
Alan Roberts’ distinguished career had many facets. As a consultant and clinical scientist, he specialised in biomaterials, clinical prosthetics and implants in reconstructive surgery, developing and using tissue adhesives in wound management. As a military man, following national service, he joined the Territorial Army (Royal Artillery), later commanding the Leeds University Officer Training Corps and then serving as Deputy of the North East Military District TA.
Alan was appointed as Pro-Chancellor in 1986 and expertly chaired the University’s Council until 2000. Alan brought special personal qualities to the role: warmth, a genuine interest in people from all walks of life, and a lively and witty style that enlivened many a meeting and social occasion. He retained a close connection with the University until his death, and indeed was due to have attended a committee meeting here on 3 December.
The Funeral Mass will be held at 11am on Friday 17 December 2021 at St Francis of Assisi RC Church, 1 Westfield Road, Morley, LS27 9NF, on which day the flag on the Parkinson Building will be flown at half-mast in his memory.
An obituary is being prepared.