Richard Digby McKennell passed away on Monday 1 August 2005 at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

Born in Halifax, Yorkshire in 1946, he went to the local primary school before attending Bradford Grammar and then boarding school at Uppingham. In 1965 he began his dental studies. He enjoyed his years at King's College Hospital in full, where he acquired the high professional standards he espoused throughout his dental career. His social life was legendary, but he also demonstrated a commitment to the General Good, particularly through his editorship of The Cottager, the fortnightly voice of the student body. He only resigned as editor shortly before taking his finals and the magazine shows an evolving maturity and social awareness during his editorship.

His friends from those years remember a multi-talented young man — his jazz trumpet playing, his mechanical skills (dismantling and reassembling his Austin Sprite sports car in their shared living quarters) and his sporting forays. His vibrancy and charm enlivened all of their student days and his continuing friendship over 40 years was treasured.

He took great satisfaction in providing quality care to the benefit of each and every one of his patients.

In 1977 Richard took over the practice in Churton Street, Pimlico. It was here that through his hard work and dedication he was able to establish consistently high standards of dental care, while maintaining a friendly, family atmosphere among staff and patients alike. He enjoyed practising all aspects of dentistry and developed an interest and special skills in endodontics. He took great satisfaction in providing quality care to the benefit of each and every one of his patients. He was truly a gentle man and a gentleman and employed dentists and support staff with a similar attitude to life.

Richard enjoyed country pursuits including shooting, fishing and birdwatching; he could name a bird by sight or sound. He loved his garden, his home, his family and his dogs. He was talented in many things and possessed extensive knowledge on a variety of subjects. He was creative, had a passion for gardening and was skilled at tying his own fishing flies.

Richard will be sadly missed by all who knew him: his wife Jean; his daughter Ruth; his sisters Maureen and Linda; and his many friends, colleagues, patients and the local community.

Donations if wished to Cancer Research, MacMillan Cancer Relief, The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds or The Game Conservancy Trust.