Mr. John Ball, B. Sc.

During the week 17th June, Mr. Ball had a rather heavy chest. He stayed at home for most of the week but was fully expecting to be back at work the following Monday. But he died on Sunday 23rd. June.

Mr. Ball, who was educated at Bolton Municipal Secondary School (1912/17) and at Manchester University (1919/24) has taught chemistry at this school since September 1928. During those 35 years, hundreds of boys and girls have learnt chemistry from him, and very many have gone on to take Degrees in the subject and afterwards to lecture at Universities, to teach, to become Doctors, pure scientists, engineers, or clergymen.

Born at Bolton "J. B." was, in his younger days, a very fine tennis player and footballer. He was still a follower and a great fan of the "Wanderers" and "United". In the First World War, he served with the Kings Regiment (Liverpool), and in the second with the Home Guard.

He was always a sincere and convinced Christian who was never afraid to confess his faith nor was he afraid to use the occasion for a little homily on Christian behaviour and virtues.

It was his joy to welcome scholars back to his Lab. where he could recall with them their deeds of long ago. Even if he could not immediately recall a face, he could, as soon as names were given, recall their personalities and triumphs.

He served the school and its pupils for many years with academic distinction, with Christian Love, and with burning zeal. He will be sorely missed.

The sympathy of the School and its members, past and present, go to Mrs. Ball and her two sons.

Written by H. H. Fairweather (In Essayan, 1963)