I am writing with sad news to advise members of the death of Dave Macklin, who passed away earlier this week aged 92 after a long illness.
While newer members may not know Dave, many will fondly remember him as a major figure in the creation and development of our club. Over many years Dave was first a founder of our club, and then served in many committee roles, overseeing its development as one of the best sailing facilities in the South West.
Appointed an honorary lifetime member in recognition of all he did, Dave was until recently a regular visitor on club days, and clearly revelled in seeing the enjoyment we all now get on the water.
The following brief words from Brian Brooks provide a personal view of Dave’s importance in our history :
Many of the younger members will not know the name David Macklin . However we do know that, not only was Dave one of our original founder members who took part in many long and sometimes arduous meetings with the then Bristol Water Management, he also held most all of the posts on the Clubs Management Team. David was a Founder Member of our wonderful club.
A very keen sailor he was awarded many (and I do mean many) Trophies for his Racing Skills; only bettered by his long time departed wife Dorothy.
David was involved for many years in all of the improvements that were made to the clubs facilities; too many to mention here.
To say he will be missed is perhaps a little late as he was forced through age and health to cease activities at the club in around 2019.
One does not “think” they know or knew David; he was larger than life; he was always “Just there”.
Our club flag flew at half mast on Wednesday evening, and will do so again this weekend, in memory of Dave.
Andy Jones
Commodore
