Sidney Klynman died on 28 January 2012 after a short illness which he bore with characteristic courage and dignity. Sidney was born in 1926; educated in Hackney, he studied dentistry at the Royal London and graduated LDS in 1948. In his final year he was awarded the Howard Fink prize. After graduation Sidney served his National Service in the RADC in Trieste, Italy, falling in love with Italy and its language.

He began practice in Southend-on-Sea in 1951 and then in Westcliff-on-Sea. He was joined by Graham Godfrey and David Entwistle who subsequently became partners in the practice. Later they acquired another surgery on Canvey Island.

He had a special interest in orthodontics, first with Mr Willcocks at Whipps Cross and then with David Di Biase at Southend Hospital. Later in his career Sidney spent periods in Israel as a volunteer providing dental treatment for children.

Sidney retired at the age of 60, working part-time until the age of 70. He was a lifelong member and passionate supporter of the BDA, serving in the Southend section as Chairman, Secretary and committee member, rarely missing a meeting. Elected to the Essex Branch in 1985, he became President that year. He worked tirelessly and selflessly for the Benevolent Fund from 1986 to 2001. He was a charming and delightful colleague caring always for the wellbeing of patients and colleagues. He was awarded BDA Life Membership in 1984.

Sidney was devoted to Inge and their two daughters – Nicole, MD and Yvonne, who has a degree in law – and their three grandchildren. Sidney and Inge shared a great love of opera, classical music and reading. In his presidential year he chose Munich, his wife's home town, for the meeting which was a great success. He also had a love of languages, being proficient in French, Italian and German.

Sidney loved walking, swimming, skiing, and had an enormous energy for life. All of us who were fortunate to know him will remember his legendary charm, good nature, sense of humour, and his consideration for others at all times. He was one of life's true gentlemen.