Colfe’s school has sadly learnt that one of our oldest former Colfeians, Robert Campbell Muir has passed away, peacefully in his sleep, at the age of 104.
Robert’s daughter, Maggie, contacted the school last year when Robert moved to a retirement home near Newport Pagnell. Maggie was keen to piece together her father’s remarkable life, and staff at Colfe’s were very happy to help. They found that Robert, who was born in 1909, was admitted to the school in September 1923 and according to Colfe’s roll book, which is used for entries pre-computerisation, and copies of the Colfensia, the old school magazine, Robert Campbell Muir lived at Belmont Park; played an active role in school life, coming 4th in the Junior Harriers race; played in the House Cricket team, and showed musical ability by singing a solo in the school concert on 15th April 1924.
Robert’s remarkable life included service in the Army, Navy and Air Force; becoming Squadron Leader with a remarkable 59 missions in Mosquitos during WW2 and being awarded the DFC (Distinguished Flying Cross), an award given for "an act or acts of valour, courage or devotion to duty whilst flying in active operations against the enemy. Robert remained active and lively throughout his life even making his first trip on a zip wire for his 99th birthday and living independently until he was 103.
Last year Maggie told us, “My father is absolutely delighted that he is back in touch with his old school, and is looking forward to reading the most recent Colfeian and Roebucks to see how much life has changed for modern day Colfeians.”
Robert is survived by one daughter, two Grandchldren and two great grandchildren. The funeral will be on 11 February at Norse Road Cemetery, Bedford.
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A fond farewell to one of our oldest Colfeians
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