Obituary for Tristan da Cunha islander Rupert Swain, who passed away 20th August 2018, aged 74.

Obituary for Rupert Swain

Rupert SwainIt is with great sadness we announce the passing of Rupert Mark Swain on the 20th August 2018 aged 74 after a long illness. Rupert was one of two siblings, he was born on the 1st September 1943 to Richard and May Swain, Rupert's sister Margaret passed away earlier last year.

Rupert was a kind person who would help anyone, he was quiet and caring in nature with a gentle heart. Until his illness took hold Rupert worked in the agricultural department on Tristan which he enjoyed. He was a keen fisherman and would often discuss where the best spots were for catching the Tristan Lobster. He loved being out on the open seas and hardly missed a trip to Nightingale, he was very proud of being one of the crew of "Pincher" one of the traditional longboats.

Rupert also loved telling stories about his time in the UK after the 1961 volcanic eruption, and could remember every detail about the evacuation trip to England on the "Stirling Castle". This inspired him to seek work on ships of the Union-Castle Line while resident in the UK.

Rupert will be sadly missed, he leaves behind his nieces Glynis, Christine and Hazel, and his nephew Dennis.

The family would like to thank all those for the support provided, the messages of condolence and all that joined them for the service.

Gone but not forgotten.