IS it a part of life's rich pattern that as you get older you start to read The Journal obituaries?

As more and more people you know shuffle off this mortal coil, the pages seem to be gradually absorbed into weekly reading matter.

I dismissed the reports for years. Now I've started perusing them, and I'm relieved when I don't know anyone featured -- and I suppose I'm not the only one.

I was saddened this week to learn of the death of former St Mary's High head of PE, Ken Pearson, at the age of 58.

In his 30-year plus career at the school the pocket dynamo produced some amazing sporting results on the field -- and some top rugby stars.

But as well as teaching, Ken organised holiday trips abroad, and I was once privileged to accompany the party to Spain.

Strict but fair, just as a teacher should be, he was a joy to be with. He had a lust for life and a great sense of humour.

His former colleagues, and the pupils he helped to success, will be sorry to hear of the loss.