I write to you with a heavy heart and the very sad news that John Worrall – our teacher, our mentor, our colleague, our friend – passed away peacefully on Tuesday at the age of 85. He was surrounded by friends, family, and loved ones. To some, John was the delightfully eccentric man who watered the plants in the Forest Science Centre and tirelessly flipped burgers at the Coconut. But for generations of foresters, he was their introduction to the Faculty of Forestry and the fascinating world of dendrology. In fact, in many ways, John embodied the Faculty of Forestry, and taught us so much more than just how to identify trees. In no particular order, some of the things I learned from John are:
- Students are the reason why universities exist.
- Take the time to observe the transcendent beauty of a Liriodendron tuliperifa in full bloom.
- Share your knowledge and experience, and whenever and wherever possible, show a kindness and generosity of spirit that is almost beyond comprehension.
- Never, ever, ever sell out, even if it means making some sacrifices. Respect is something that is earned.
- Question authority. If necessary, subvert from within. The institution will be better for it.
I encourage you to share any memories and learnings that you may have of this wonderful man.
John had a full life, and took immense pleasure in spending time with his friends. In his later years, especially as his health faltered, many folks from the Forestry community would check in on him – thank you for this. In particular, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and condolences to two individuals for the support and love that they showed John – John Davies (Forestry alum) and our very own Chiara Longhi.
I’m certain that there will be events planned, and much more to say about this remarkable man. In the coming days, please look out for an obituary in an upcoming issue of the Tree Frog Forestry News.
In the meantime, let me suggest putting on some chamber music, telling a knock-knock joke, and raising a glass to the iconoclastic, inimitable John Gatlin Worrall.
Stay well, and all the best,
Rob
Analog Worrall