It is with sadness that we report the death of Derek Baker, past registrar of ABDO, due to complications after contracting Covid.
Derek started his working life as a trainee engineer with the Royal Air Force but was discharged on medical grounds, due to epilepsy, after three years. He then worked in an accountancy firm before joining the ADO (the predecessor to ABDO) in 1964 as assistant to the secretary, Marc Aird, soon becoming registrar.
Derek was in charge of distance learning courses, block release placement and examinations, in a role that was multi-faceted and included acting as secretary to a multitude of committees. He saw the distance learning course increase from 50 students when he arrived, to more than 1,000 students when he retired.
Over the years, Derek was instrumental in the setting up of training in many countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, Kenya and Zimbabwe, and setting up the optics department at Anglia Ruskin University and ABDO College.
Derek was awarded ABDO Honorary Life Membership for his services to the profession and was granted an honorary degree by Anglia Ruskin University.
Derek retired in 2003 but has always remained interested in ABDO and ABDO College affairs, and has kept in touch with many members, who became close friends over the years.
Married for more than 50 years, Derek leaves his wife Wendy, his children Alison and Stuart and grandchildren of whom he was very proud.
The funeral took place at Bournemouth crematorium on 4 January. Any donations are very welcome to Oakhaven Hospice, Lymington, where Derek worked as a volunteer for many years.