Richard BEATSON Obituary

I met Rick over 30 years ago on his first research visit to the University of Leicester to work with Will Light. From the first moment I knew I had met a really generous and supportive person, with a fantastic sense of humour. He introduced us to the word "wazzock" which got a lot of use in our research conversations. From that point until I left Leicester he was one of the people I loved to work with most. I rate him as a real pioneer in making the research many people did useful to the more general practitioner. We had two tremendous visits to Christchurch which my family and I remember as wonderful times, meeting Meg, Erin, Zander and Tane too. Heartfelt love from the Levesleys to the Beatsons. We loved Rick and will hold him in our hearts always.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

To Meg & Family. I was saddened to hear Rick had passed away. He was a great flatmate at Hagley Ave, so easy to chat to, especially when it came to tramping , so impressive yet always so down to earth with his academic achievements. I feel very privileged, he was a good role model. I'm sorry that I was unable to make a planned recent catch up due to a horrible cold I didn't want to risk passing on. I'm currently in NSW unable to attend the funeral which although sad I know will also be a networking of loving family and friends. I am thinking of you all. Kia kaha, Miles.

Dear Meg, I was so sad to learn of Rick´s passing.
Please accept our most sincere condolences.
I didn´t know Rick that well but I do know how happy he made you feel Often off on really interesting overseas trips and challenging yourselves on so many NZ tracks.
I always liked this verse. I hope it is so for you.
"Loved ones live on in the words they said in the lives they touched and in the happiness we feel every time we remember them"
Love from
Joyce & Neale Price

So many memories of our times as students in the Maths dept at UC in the 1970s, both as undergraduates and then as postgraduate students. You were both the best mathematician among us and a great guy - and such an experienced tramper too. And of course that amazing flat in Clyde Road!

Our condolences and sympathies to Meg and family.

Margaret, please accept my condolences on the passing of your husband. I, too,have walked the cancer journey with my husband until it took him in May 2021. It is a cruel disease, affecting not just the one who battles it but his/her wider family as well. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers as you adjust to life without Rick. May memories of happier times strengthen and sustain you.
Anne McCormick, nee Giles
(Ex Christchurch Teachers College Library)

Am so sad for you, and your whanau, Meg. Losing your beloved best friend Rick. May the bonds of love in your family help you through the days ahead. Though lovers be lost, love shall not, and death shall have no dominion. You are all in my thoughts.

Rick was a valued colleague from my many years at the University of Canterbury and a good friend. He was one of a small group of numerical mathematicians in the Department of Mathematics and was an expert in numerical approximation, recognised internationally for his work and able to apply his expertise in conjunction with local projects. Rick was always interested in helping his students and contributing to the Department´s policies.
Unfortunately I have been severely affected by various health issues which have severely curtailed my ability to keep up with Tuesday gatherings at the University Club. However I was able to keep in touch by electronic means and was aware Rick was suffering from ill health. He visited me in hospital for which I was grateful and we discussed a variety of issues including our health. However when I received the news of Rick´s passing I was deeply saddened Helen and I extend our condolences to Meg and the family for their loss.
Thanks for the memories Rick.

I am so sorry to hear about Rick's passing. My sympathy and condolences to his family. He was a great scholar in numerical approximation and other areas of mathematics. He contributed greatly to the mathematical community. Having been an examiner for some of his graduate students, I could tell he cared greatly for his students.

Stephen Joe
University of Waikato.