Michael John Rees 1924 - 21st December 2019
In 1957 Mike was my next door neighbour in Lozells Birmingham. He was a member of Lucas Chess club, in the Birmingham and District Chess League. Mike was active in all kinds of administrative chess club roles, He was a kind gentle man. I was an eleven year old schoolboy in short trousers attending Gower Street school and Mike was kind enough to give me some chess coaching. We played regularly and my game improved. I joined Lozells Chess Club and my game further improved so that I began to beat him on a regular basis.
I left home and I did not see Mike for many years although we had a number of chess orientated email communications. His role during this time was as Web Master for the Birmingham League.
In 1995 I met Mike in a Division five Birmingham league game. I was playing for West Midlands Police and Mike was still with Lucas. You guessed it! I lost.
Thanks for everything Mike, Knowing you has been a pleasure.
Alan Ruffle