Robert (Rob) Vines started work with Site Services in March 1998, as a part-time cleaner in Biological Sciences. It soon became clear that Rob was a real asset to the team and he was quickly promoted to leading cleaner. With the introduction of full-time cleaning services in 2001, Rob became the only full-time leading cleaner. He moved to a new base in 35 Berkeley Square, where he remained for nine years, before moving to Chemistry in 2009.

In 2010, Rob fell ill, which was very unusual as his sickness record had been exemplary up until then. Sadly, he was diagnosed with cancer shortly afterwards.

Rob was a kind, gentle and sociable man with a great sense of humour, who thoroughly enjoyed his job at the University. He was always reliable and helpful, and he cared deeply about the people he worked with. Rob always gave his utmost to the department and the University; one could genuinely say about him that ‘he didn’t have a bad bone in his body’.

Rob was a family man who was immensely proud of his wife Geraldine and three daughters, Kate, Helen and Joanna. He loved his holidays in the sun and liked to visit exotic destinations. He also had a keen interest in sport, especially cricket and football, and liked a good gossip on England’s latest performance!

During his 13 years of service, Rob was a big part of the Site Services supervisory team and a very valuable member of staff. He will be sorely missed by all his friends and colleagues at the University, and will be a hard act to follow.

Rob passed away peacefully in the early hours of 8 April. Our condolences go to his wife and daughters. The funeral will take place on Thursday 14 April, at Bristol South Crematorium at 3pm.

Liz Lynch, Site Services Manager