Tribute to Joseph Christian Soutter

I would like to pay this tribute to Joseph Soutter, who was a great friend of mine from when I met him at the school of pharmacy in Aberdeen in 1950.

He was always so full of fun and when, after my first year, I suggested I was going to change from pharmacy, he was the person who persuaded me to stay on the course, and encouraged me to take my degree.

We both had girlfriends — Joe had Irene, a neighbour of mine, and I had Doreen. We made a good foursome — even going on holiday to Butlins in Ayr, Scotland, (with our parents’ permission, I might add).

After qualifying, I was called up to do my two-year national service and lost touch with Joe and Irene, whom I found out went to live and work in England.

I was so sorry to hear of his passing and send all my good wishes to his family. If it wasn’t for Joe, I would not have spent 50 years being a local pharmacist in Aberdeen.