Steve Penn

Words cannot do justice to what a generous, kind-hearted person we have lost. I first met Steve when he returned to his former school The Earls High in 1981 to teach computer studies, and some mathematics in my department. He proved to be an enthusiastic, able and supportive colleague. Moreover he has been a valuable friend ever since. As IT Coordinator and Network Manager Steve always showed great patience in helping me develop my computer skills, and how to use IT to improve the mathematics curriculum. Outside of school, he has given me advice and helped with various household jobs which I could not have completed alone, often providing the necessary tools. Steve lent me a bicycle for a week in Pembrokeshire. During the week he and Jane turned up in The Pennmobile with Nick and Natasha looking like drowned rats after torrential rain had penetrated the vehicle. Undaunted the show went on including our attempts at waterskiing and Steve driving the Pennmobile through the narrowest lanes to reach a beach at Marloes. Steve was always willing to have a go, including at sports such as football, basketball, hockey, volleyball, and his beloved cricket and lifesaving. A staff cricket match against Leasowes was interrupted by a biblical lightning storm and downpour. As we ran desperately for the cover of the pavilion, Steve, conscientious as ever, raced off to the main school building to switch off and save the computer network. More recently Steve has come to the rescue in his role as a plumber. Normally I would give him a lift with Marj to the monthly Earls staff drink. Future meetings will not be the same. It has been unbelievably hard to write this. I am gutted but honoured to have known you Steve. Mervyn (and Hilary)