Robert (Robin) Temple (BH, 1944)

The following tribute has been provided by Robin’s family.

Robin was a boarder in Boyne House between 1939 and 1944. He had fond memories of Cheltenham College, with particular enthusiasm for rowing and rugby. He was also a member of the ornithological society, sparking a lifelong interest in bird watching. As his time at the school coincided with the war years, he also had memories of the playing fields being used to grow food, as part of the war effort.

On leaving school, Robin followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the army as a commissioned officer. He saw active service in India and Pakistan during Partition and became a firm supporter of the Gurkhas.

Following his discharge from the army Robin studied Chemistry at St Andrews University, where he made some valued friendships. After graduation Robin started a career in the chemical industry that took him to many places around the world. Initially in Glasgow, working for ICI (Imperial Chemical Industries), then to Kent and Berkshire. He was an export manager for many years, with numerous trips overseas, including to Australia, Hong Kong and Japan.

In 1967 Robin and his family moved to the USA for three years when he was offered a job with Dow Corning. In 1975, Robin’s new job took the family to Tehran, where they were very happy, until the family had to return to the UK after the revolution. He then worked in Nigeria for 12 years, including a number of years as regional Managing Director for International Paints.

Robin fully retired in 1996 but kept very active, having at various times been President of the Tiverton branch of the Royal British Legion and Chair of the local Conservative Party. He played golf, bridge and also volunteered for Age Concern. He was also member of the Old Cheltonian Association, joining local meet ups on occasions.

Robin married Diana in 1955. They had four daughters and remained together until Diana sadly passed away in 2009. Robin is survived by his daughters as well as his four grandchildren, and Margaret, his close companion in his later years.