Abstract
Astute, independent of mind and quick of humour. Michael Yates, Secretary of the Institute of Measurement and Control from June 1987 to April 2008 was all of these…and more.
Educated at Frensham Heights, an independent boarding school near Farnham, Surrey, and at Sussex University, where he read for his Masters in History, Mike was erudite and articulate. This, an unassuming manner and the ability to empathise meant that his company was invariably valued. These qualities also gave him the capacity to foster long term friendships. He happily dined out on the fact that at university he and one, Derek Gunby, shared a flat with Thabo Mbeki, during the latter’s political exile from South Africa. Frequenting a local bar in Brighton when they were not discussing politics or listening to music, the trio became lifelong friends.
Although happy to keep his own counsel, Mike nevertheless enjoyed company – and was himself good company. Testimony to this was his worldwide network of contacts and colleagues evolved from his many years’ involvement with the international measurement community, particularly with the International Society of Automation (ISA) and the International Measurement Confederation (IMEKO):
- ‘I always had a special fondness for Michael. I think our respective positions as contemporaries resulted in a special bond… I always looked forward to, and looked fondly back on, the many meetings we shared at Gower Street, elsewhere in London, Brussels, Dusseldorf and here in the USA.’ (Glenn Harvey, ISA Executive Director, Emeritus)
- ‘We have lost with Mike a likeable and highly experienced old friend and colleague. His lack will not be easy to fulfill, not only because of his professional skills but mainly for his character and as a human being as well.’ (Professor Tilo Pfeifer, Aachen University/IMEKO).
Mike joined the Institute in June 1973 and, almost to the day, fourteen years later was appointed Secretary. He was comfortable with the ethos of professional institutions and was acutely aware of the egos and sensitivities that can manifest themselves in such organisations. Not surprisingly, he had a strong commitment to protocol and constitutional affairs. Of an enquiring mind, however, his over-riding interest was in the Institute’s learned society activities and the work of its Technical Panels. Given this and living in Teddington, London, he was a regular and welcome visitor to the National Physical Laboratory. Very much his own man there were certain times when he drew the line and would not budge, whatever the issue.
At home Mike cherished his wife, Elvina, and his family. He bore his personal tragedies – the passing of his daughter and, more recently, the passing of his step-daughter – with considerable fortitude and dignity. An armchair sportsman, he followed the fortunes of Sheffield United football team and England Cricket. His enduring political inclinations were towards the old Labour of Tony Benn, pacifism and nuclear disarmament, being always ready to march in support of these convictions. Holidays were frequently spent in Italy, free moments were used to complete The Times cryptic crossword…and it’s been said that in quieter moments he enjoyed a pint or two and savoured a glass or two…
May Michael rest in peace. Our world will be poorer for the passing of this likeable man.
Peter Martindale
Chief Executive
Institute of Measurement and Control.