Allen Cedric Roger

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Biografie:
Cedric Roger Allen (1934-1992)
Whilst descending a ridge on Trollvasstind in the Lyngsalpene of Norway, Roger was struck by a huge rock; he had no escape route open to him, and plunged 2000ft to an untimely death. Although a very experienced and careful climber he had suffered more than his share of bad luck and this was his third serious accident in the mountains. Now the mountains have extracted their settlement for the 40 years in which he enjoyed the experiences, the friendships and the fulfilment of climbing amongst them.
Born in Leeds in 1934, Roger graduated in Physical Chemistry at the University of Leeds and later gained a doctorate for his research. In 1960 he took on a lectureship at the University of Dundee to be near to the great Scottish mountains. He retired from the University in 1991.
Roger had wide-ranging interests, a sharp mind and a wry disarming wit; he could speak with knowledge and conviction on a host of subjects and was just good to be with. As president of the University Bell Club, he enjoyed the mind-stretching forum for the discussion of science and philosophy. His regular attendance at the University Chaplaincy concerts helped to fulfil his keen interest in music.
It was the mountains, however, that were to become perhaps the principal driving force in his life. He had the good fortune to have a wife who was his equal on the hills. Those of us who walked and climbed with him will know that he was never the man for a soft option; he would make his plans and would carry his companions along with him, always stretching his own and their capabilities. His knowledge and experience of the Scottish mountains were almost legendary and he must have climbed most of the Munros several times over, but I do not remember him counting them. On a day out with Roger one could be certain to take in that extra top at the end of a long hard day.
He had been an active member of the Yorkshire Ramblers' Club since 1953, joining the committee briefly, and was secretary in 1956/57. He enjoyed the respect and affection of that Club and was elected vice president for 1987/89. He became a life member in 1988. The Alps had a special attraction for Roger and over the past 40 years, he had climbed in most of the centres to a good standard, with many exciting and satisfying expeditions to his credit. He joined the Alpine Club in 1965 but was rarely in a position to attend meetings, living so far north. He was, nevertheless, very proud of his membership of the Club.
Roger would never have enjoyed growing old and being unable to get out on the hills and mountains. Perhaps he would have chosen to have ended his days in the mountains he loved, but at a much later date for sure. He leaves his widow Sue, two sons and a daughter, and, with his friends and companions on the hills, very many happy memories.
David Smith
Quelle: Alpine Journal Vol. 98, 1993, Seite 335-336


Geboren am:
1934
Gestorben am:
1992