Obituary for DUFFUS, Ian R.

BD001p1.jpg - Ian Reoch Duffus RAOC Boy Soldier from November 1953 to December 1954 Passed away following a short illness on 27th. February 2007 I first met Ian in early 1959 when moving between accommodation Blocks at 17 Rear Vehicle Depot, Mőnchengladbach, Germany. I was moved into Block 34 to share a twin room with Kenny Gould, a National Serviceman. Ian was the Block Cpl, and made it crystal clear what he expected of me. He ran a tight ship and always fronted up to the CSM/RSM for us without question when aspects of ‘interior economy’ or ‘outside areas’ were found by them to be wanting. At times Kenny and I would ‘go over the wall’ for a weekend in Holland. Ian never asked us where we had been, although I know he must have covered for us during bed checks. He came across to many as a dour individual and gave as good as he got, but I came to know him as an essentially helpful man and knowledgeable NCO who liked life and a laugh just like the rest of us. I left 17 Rear Vehicle Depot for Aden in June 1961 and I did not see Ian again until some 13 years later when I was posted to 5 Field Wksp, Soest as the WO2 Tech/2IC. Ian was the SSgt SNCOIC Stores. Needless to say, he was a good reliable operator and gave me his sound support in all unit matters. The years passed and I recall meeting him once more, I believe in Germany. He told me he was an Estate Warden and quite happy with life. My (belated) condolences to his family. Rest in peace my friend. Colin G Buckle, February 2012 Any details, memories or photographs that you may have would be most welcome.

BD001p2.jpg - Ian Reoch Duffus 1953 RAOC Boy's School - Hilsea Barracks Ian entering Boy's School - Aged 16 Any details, memories or photographs that you may have would be most welcome.

BD001p4.jpg - Ian Reoch Duffus 1954 RAOC Boy's School - Hilsea Barracks Ian & Peter O'Hara Norman (Nobby) Baggaley wrote: I knew Ian when I first got posted to Sennelager in 1968, he was a gentle man then and would always help the young lads when ever. My condolences to his wife Wyn and the family. Any details, memories or photographs that you may have would be most welcome.

BD001p5.jpg - Ian Reoch Duffus 1953 RAOC Boy's School - Hilsea Barracks Unknown Boy & Ian Any details, memories or photographs that you may have would be most welcome.

Ian Reoch Duffus

1954 RAOC Boy's School - Hilsea Barracks
Unknown Boy & Ian

Terry Joll (RAOC 1957-1984) wrote:

I knew Ian very well. He was a Sgt in 24 OFP in Barnard Castle when I was CSM.
He was a very loyal and likeable chap.

It was I that encouraged him to put in a plea of mitigation for his LS&GC Medal which had been refused previously because of some minor charge years ago.
Major Colin Rogers MBE put it forward and Ian received his medal at Barnard Castle.

May he rest in peace

Any details, memories or photographs that you may have would be most welcome.