OLD DERBEIAN SOCIETY
Obituary
Robert James Wallen (1995-2001)
Robert joined the School in its inaugural year, one of the 27 or so "pioneers" as they were known then. Never afraid to shy away, he was one of the more colourful characters during the School's early years, as those who knew him will no doubt attest. Academically, the arts over the sciences were his forte, though he was accomplished in both as his exam results showed. He chose English Language and Literature as well as Latin for A-level. After school he moved to Durham to read classics, and after graduating chose a career in accountancy with Grant Thornton. His prowess and command of the English language were well demonstrated in the numerous articles he wrote for both the School newspaper, The Derbeian, and the School magazine, both of which he helped to edit. He wrote on various topics including the performance of his house, Bemrose, school trips, sporting events and more. The award of the Speech Day prize for English evidenced his ability on two occasions. In addition he attained the Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award, the only member of his year to do so.He was also an all-round sportsman, despite not being able to play his favourite sport of football for the school. He played for the first XV rugby as well as for the first XI hockey and cricket teams. At rugby he was described as someone "who marshalled the defence amazingly well." In hockey he won half colours and played at county level, flying down the wing for Derbyshire. He was dedicated to his house, Bemrose, encouraging as many people as possible to take part, only ever with one thing in mind; victory. He was proudly appointed both house captain and deputy head boy.
Amongst friends he was known and is remembered for, inter alia, his acerbic wit, laissez-faire attitude and absolute loyalty. For his family he is a dearly loved and missed son and brother, who would no doubt loathe the idea of such a laudatory piece being written about him.
All of those who knew him will treasure his memory as a pupil or as a friend.
Acknowledgement: New Derbeian 2010.
