OC and former Highgate Teacher Roger Mortimer (CH 1959) has passed away

Roger and his partner of more than 50 years, Annie.

We are very sad to report that Roger Mortimer (CH 1959), OC and former Housemaster of Field House, died on 1 July 2022 at the age of 75.

Roger attended School from September 1959 until July 1964 where he was a member of Cordell House. He studied at Birkbeck College at the University of London and, later, returned to Highgate in September 1979 to become an English and Drama teacher in the Junior School. As well as being the last House Master of Field House when it was a boarding house, Roger was also acting deputy Principal for a period.

In addition, Roger directed legendary school productions and also had huge input into the planning of Prizegiving, Religious services, Speech and Drama competitions. Charismatic and a highly competent organiser, Roger also made a name for himself as the children’s author of the Mouse Kingdom trilogy.

Richard Brewster (CH 1959), a school friend of Roger and Immediate Past President of the OC Society, remembers Roger below

Roger was an intellectual with the common touch. He generously shared his huge talents with pupils, colleagues and friends. Whether he was provoking, exciting or usually entertaining, he performed for the pleasure of others not himself. A charming gentleman not a show-off and a man of great kindness and humility. Even when he was so obviously suffering from poor health, he still made his friends laugh.

As we all struggle to come to terms with our loss, our thoughts and prayers are with his dear wife of over 50 years, Annie.

Roger’s family and friends gathered for his cremation, which took place at the Crematorium on Hertford Road Hoddesdon on Friday 5 August. About 50 friends and family attended and amongst the moving eulogies was one from Michael Crisp (CH 1959), who had remained close friends with Roger since first meeting him in Cordell House in September 1959 .

OCs are welcomed to send in any thoughts or memories regarding Roger to OC@highgateschool.org.uk, which will be passed onto his family.