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.
Very sad news and a great loss to the college. When I met him I found someone who was incredibly intelligent, humourous and displaying a great sense of humanity. I am sure he will be sorely missed by many.
Edward Archer
The very sad loss for his family and friends, for St John’s College,Cambridge University and for all who knew him.
Arthur Muirhead
Condolences to Sir Christopher's family. I only met him a few times at Old Johnian events, but it was clear that he was a man of huge ability, both academically and pastorally. He will be missed.
Mark Briegal (1980)
I vaguely remember Chris from my undergrad days when he tutored another group of medics. I was always a little jealous that they got on so well with their tutor.
Later, on meeting Chris at reunions I found him to be a humble, charming man who was an extremely good listener: my wife and I found him to be an excellent host, genuinely interested in what I had done post SJC, and in both of our careers as GPs with other interests. His gently enquiring manner without a huge ego created an impression of an excellent teacher/role-model and a lovely man. My condolences to all of his family and to the SJC family as well
Later, on meeting Chris at reunions I found him to be a humble, charming man who was an extremely good listener: my wife and I found him to be an excellent host, genuinely interested in what I had done post SJC, and in both of our careers as GPs with other interests. His gently enquiring manner without a huge ego created an impression of an excellent teacher/role-model and a lovely man. My condolences to all of his family and to the SJC family as well
Dr Chris Perks
We had the pleasure to meet Chris and Mary on many occasions over the last few years, including some very special events in the Master's Lodge, most notably when he held a ceremony to mark my status as the College's first Fellow Benefactor in 2018.
As Chair of the St John's Development Board, I had the privilege to work with Chris in helping realise his enlightened vision for the College: we should all be extremely proud of his legacy in creating a vibrant, sustainable place of learning that is open to all. His drive and personality were vital in shaping the Free Thinking Campaign, particularly in the early years when such an approach was not common currency. That St John's is now considered to be the Gold Standard in its Studentship programme is testament to his leadership. In honouring the life and legacy of Sir Christopher Dobson, it behoves all Johnians to ensure his vision is nurtured and promoted anew.
As Chair of the St John's Development Board, I had the privilege to work with Chris in helping realise his enlightened vision for the College: we should all be extremely proud of his legacy in creating a vibrant, sustainable place of learning that is open to all. His drive and personality were vital in shaping the Free Thinking Campaign, particularly in the early years when such an approach was not common currency. That St John's is now considered to be the Gold Standard in its Studentship programme is testament to his leadership. In honouring the life and legacy of Sir Christopher Dobson, it behoves all Johnians to ensure his vision is nurtured and promoted anew.
Richard & Goska Trubshaw
Sir Christopher was a superb leader of the College for so many years, he will be sorely missed. My particular connection with him was through the world of rowing - his strong support of the LMBC was very much appreciated by all the scarlet blazers.
Mike Sweeney
As Master he was such an integral member of the college, always looking to everyone as his equal. An example of true leadership.
Rachel
My deepest condolences! A wonderful and sweet human being always with a smile. He shall be missed!
Dr Ivan Guevara-bernal
For the past three quarters of a century I have maintained links with the College, and in all that time I cannot think of a Master who has more worthily filled that office, or done more to support and promote the reputation of college and choir alike.
Peter Cobb (1945)
I was incredibly sad to hear of Master Dobson's passing. It is so rare to meet somebody so warm, energetic and kind. He was a wonderful person with a real love for life. He touched so many different people's lives and will be sorely missed.
Joanna Bell