Book of Condolence: Professor Sir Christopher Dobson

This page was created to display online messages of condolence following the death of Professor Sir Christopher Dobson, Master of St John’s College, who died age 69 on Sunday, September 8 2019.

Please note we are no longer accepting submissions to the online condolence book.

From his first day as Master, also my first day in College, it was clear that his first priority above all was the students. I got to know him through his unfailing support of the choir and we couldn’t have asked for more. Looking down the chapel during evensong and seeing him and Mary in their places was a source of great familiar comfort. Just weeks ago he hosted a wonderful choir reunion in chapel and hall. He also changed rules to allow students to use their rooms in college throughout the academic year, no longer being moved out each holiday for conferences, a hugely significant step. With all of his college work, fundraising, the Quincentenary, support of all college activities, I was always amazed that he found time for groundbreaking work as a chemist. His ‘five diaries’, all colour coded, were famous. And added to all of that, his and Mary’s door was always open for a chat at the lodge. An incredibly special man and it was an honour to know him. My thoughts with Mary, their sons, and all at St John’s.
Francis Williams, 2007-10
I had the immense privilege of meeting Chris whilst on placement at St. John’s Chapel. So sorry to learn of his death and wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to his family.
Thank you God for a life well lived in service of others.
May he + Rest in peace and Rise in glory
The Revd. Sandra McCalla (2012)
Every minute spent in Chris's company was a pleasure. He was as witty as he was erudite and kind. Students of other colleges envied St John's its master and they were right to . Chris loved the choir and we loved him. Seeing him and Mary in the front row of the Gents' Maypole Christmas gig made us so proud and happy. As others have said, I hope it will be of consolation to Mary, Richard and William that he was so universally loved and admired.
Xavier Hetherington
I knew Professor Dobson as a kind, dedicated man. To illustrate: on a short, very busy visit to Australia some years ago he made time to visit my wife, who has a rare form of Parkinsons’ disease, to discuss her case and give words of sympathy and encouragement. He will not be forgotten.
Robin Wingate-Hill
A superb patron of learning, music, sports, and college life - the very best of Masters, and a great leader. Thank you.

VL!
J Emmins
Sir Christopher was a remarkable man. I had the good fortune to know him at St John's and, prior to this, at Lady Margaret Hall. He has been an inspiration to so many people. He leaves behind an exceptional legacy.
My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.
Mark Hanley-Browne
I cannot pretend that I knew Sir Christopher well but, having met him a number of times over the last few years, I was struck by his obvious intellect and quiet courtesy to all those whom he encountered. The published obituaries which document his scientific achievements are awe-inspiring. College has lost a wonderful Master; Members have lost a friend. Sincere condolences to Mary, Richard and William.
William Harbage
I am incredibly saddened by the loss of Chris, my PhD advisor and the master of my college. My deepest condolences to Mary, Richard, and William. The world has lost a gem of a person.

It was a privilege to know and work closely with Chris. Over the past week since hearing the news of his passing, I reflected on what about Chris I admired so deeply. He was, of course, a brilliant scientist and communicator. He could share with both clarity and humor, his most transformative discoveries with the widest array of audiences. I also recalled how it felt during and after meetings with him—I always felt important, inspired, and uplifted. Despite his numerous honors and accolades, he never projected an air of superiority. He practiced true inclusivity; he ensured that everyone he met feel appreciated and that their contributions were important, regardless of rank and status. He embodied generosity in every one of his actions. He leaves with us his legacy of kindness and warmth, that will serve as an example to which we all can aspire. Thank you, Chris, for gracing the world with your lovely spirit.
Priyanka Narayan
It is sad news to learn of the passing of Chris Dobson. He was a powerful, yet gentle, figure in the magnetic resonance community, as well as the protein folding and misfolding disease communities. My interactions with Chris were through many NMR conferences, and his participation in the International Conference on Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems. He always had a smile and welcoming greeting, he led by example, and he touched so many young scientists through their careers. Our community and the world in general is better off thanks to the contributions and the presence of Chris. My thoughts for the family, we will miss him very much.
R. Andrew Byrd, National Cancer Institute, USA
Chris's passion to connect with the St. John's community shows no boundaries. His connections went to alumni, the research community, local schools, future Johnians. He took time to maintain personal relationships through travels, meetings, visits, correspondences and is passionate about helping students with economic need to have the best education available. A big loss to humankind in so many ways.

Our deepest condolences to Mary, Richard and William. May our prayers ease the pain of this loss and that Chris rests in the everlasting peace of Christ Almighty.
Sue Wan and Patricia CHUA (Hong Kong)