English Chess Forum

Quoting from an obituary on his Facebook page from 5th August:

"Dear All,
I would like to let all of Laurie's friends know the immeasurably sad news that he died in the middle of last night in peace. I, along with our children, are so thankful to the Lord for his extraordinary life, his faithfulness and the incredible difference he made to so many people's lives.
I ask you to give space at this time for our children and me to grieve. I will put up another message when we have made arrangements. Yours in Him, Ethel"

A few articles on him from recent years:

http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/former- ... 5pJq6RQ.01

http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/lifestyle/r ... -1-7154901

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-brok ... ba2/?ppe=1

He was Royal Navy chess champion and President of the Combined Services Chess Association.

A few articles mentioning the chess connection:

https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/ ... ster-carer
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article ... -cope.html

A good number of Combined Services Chess players have paid tribute to him by email.

He always seemed cheerful, (even recently when he was very ill), and made a point of thanking the people doing the work at tournaments. He was a very senior Navy Officer, but ensured that the NCOs and "Other Ranks" got a warm welcome at the CS tournaments. This came as a shock to some players. I remember one young officer more or less standing to attention every time Laurie spoke to him! Laurie had the ability (like Sir Stuart Milner-Barry) to make you feel important when he spoke to you.

The annual tournament will seem very strange without him.

Laurie's funeral will take place at Holy Rood Church, Stubbington, PO14 2AS on Friday 18th August at 1130, the service is open to all.

Parking is very limited at the church and in the village so you can go to the church. Traffic may be heavy in the area due to the first arrival of HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH into Portsmouth between 17th and 22nd August. Please be seated by 1115 and we kindly ask only.

Although not compulsory, military personnel are invited to wear. No.1 uniform (medal, no swords). Please do not bring flowers. Light refreshments will be served after the service.