It is with great sadness that NEAS announces the loss of our good friend and Observatory Director, Stuart Grainger, at the age of 81.
Stuart had been a member for some 17 years, and served on the committee for much of that, being instrumental in helping to shape the society into the organisation it is today. Every year for the past 5–6 years he had announced he would retire from his role, only to decide to carry on for “just one more year”. His passion and commitment to the society were second to none. Anyone who has attended one of our public lectures, stargazing nights at Great Notley, or school or scout group outreach events is likely to have met Stuart, who continued to attend virtually every one of these up until very recently when ill health prevented him (reluctantly, we might add!) from doing so.
Stuart worked tirelessly to keep our observatory running smoothly, often carrying out maintenance and repairs himself, and was always in attendance at our Thursday night club sessions. Our observing facilities are NEAS’s greatest asset, and Stuart’s contribution to the whole operation cannot be underestimated.
He was a kind and extremely genial man with a fascinating mind and huge heart. His passing leaves a huge hole, both in the society and in the hearts of all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Rest in peace, Stuart.