Dr Hamish Glen Anderson, who was a member of the mathematics department from 1949 to 1990, died on 17 May. Dr Anderson was born in Hawick and brought up in Edinburgh where he attended George Watson's College and the University of Edinburgh. He attained his PhD in 1949 and was then appointed to a lectureship in mathematics in University College, Dundee. He was promoted to a senior lectureship in 1964.
Dr Anderson was a university lecturer par excellence. Younger colleagues sometimes thought him a little old-fashioned, but the qualities of his teaching were timeless - deep knowledge of his subject, constantly rethought: meticulous preparation, crystal-clear presentation (a little serious perhaps but lightened for those who had ears to hear by flashes of quiet humour) and a quite remarkable sensitivity to the reactions of his listeners. Just a few weeks ago one of his former students spoke warmly of the influence his example had been in forming her own teaching style. He was devoted to his students' academic development - and also, though not intrusively or judgementally, in their personal development - that they knew this and were grateful for it was clearly shown by the overwhelming response when we invited the 40 years of mathematics honours graduates who had known him to recognise his retiral.
Though perhaps that is how he would like to be remembered, Dr Anderson's contributions to the department were not only as a teacher. Successive heads of department have acknowledged how much they relied on his help with departmental administration. He was the best kind of administrator, taking such care to make things run smoothly that one could easily overlook the great effort needed. He liked to have things done right and for a number of years saw to it that the Faculty of Science regulations were in perfect order.
In his private life Dr Anderson was a keen walker, a member of the National Trust for Scotland, a regular attender at the Friday lunch-time concerts and an avid Scottish opera fan. He was also a devoted churchman - serving as Elder for 40 years as Sunday School Superintendent and congregational treasurer and bringing his administrative gifts and personal qualities to the service of the Presbytery of Dundee and its committees.
He is survived by his wife Mary, children Elspeth, Ian and Kathleen and five grandchildren.