David Estcourt PHF

David Estcourt PHF.

It is with great sadness that we record the death of Past President David Estcourt who passed away on 13^th December 2019 at the age of 83.   

David was a longstanding member of the Rotary Club of North Fylde; joining in1989. He was a keen advocate on the benefits and work of the Rotary Foundation, serving for many years as our club Foundation Chairman and on the District Foundation Committee. His familiarity with Matching Grants assisted many projects throughout District 1190. He was instrumental in an overseas project involving the Rotary Clubs of Blackpool, North Fylde and Eshowe in KwaZulu Natal to provide classrooms and toilets in a rural school. 

During his time at North Fylde David served in many capacities including President and for many years acted as Club Secretary and archivist. A Paul Harris Fellowship was followed by a Paul Harris Sapphire award in recognition of his many years of diligent service.

David grew up on the Fylde coast, a ‘sandgrown’un’. He attended Arnold school in Blackpool before studying Natural Sciences at Manchester University. Following graduation he joined the family paper making business based in Darwen and later joined Reed International, paper manufacturers, which included a period based in Norway. Returning to the UK and the Fylde coast, David became a member of North Fylde. A few years later his job moved him to Ottery St Mary in Devon where he transferred to the local Rotary club. On retirement David returned to the Fylde coast and immersed himself in a study of horticulture and his love of gardening.

Only in the last few years when he was dogged by poor health due to respiratory problems did he step back from full involvement in Rotary activities. He is survived by his wife Mavis, three children and five grandchildren.