Our thoughts are with his family at this time and we hope to share a Eulogy from them in due course. Michael passed away on 1st October after a short illness. He was well known and liked by many in our community. 

MICHAEL Van Blankenstein (Blanky) worked as a lecturer: born in London, 24th May 1929, parents Michel Van Blankenstien and Kathleen Florence  (Gibson); S. 1944-47 Prefect, 1st XV rugby, School Plays, Music Society, School Council; married Gwendoline Brookbank (school teacher) in London on 22nd August 1953. Children Guy Michael born 28th November 1959 Jolyon Mark born 9th April 1962;  1952 BSc in Economics and Political Science (L.S.E.), 1954 Cert. in Education, 1969 Diploma in Further Education (London), 1976 M.A. Education (London); 1947-49 RAF,; 1952-1953 hospital admin,; 1954-55 teaching in secondary school ; 1955-71 Lecturer in Further Education; 1972-86 Lecturer, College of Education; 1987-87 Principal Lecturer at Thames Polytechnic; 1989- Part Time lecturer in music for W.E.A .; 1980-81 President of S.O.S.A.; 1986-81 Secretary of S.O.S.A., Easter Sec, Editor, Nomminations Sec, S.O.S.A rep on School Committee of Management; 1970 President, Sibford O.S.A., 1988- member Sibford Committee of Management; rambling, music, cinema, collecting recordings (a discaholic)