Kenneth Lee
Kenneth Lee, aged 74 years, crossed the bar peacefully at his home in Barry on the 29th May 1999.
Kenneth was born at St Mellons, Gwent June 28th 1924, the family moving to Cardiff and finally Barry. He attended the Barry Grammar school in 1939 with his mind set on a seagoing career, he passed the entrance examination for the Smith Junior Nautical School, commencing at the beginning of the second year of a 3 year course. on completing the course in July 1941, he received the Kings Silver Medal, one of three presented annually by the Honourable Company of Master Mariners the best students in Nautical Schools.
Kenneth signed Apprentice's Indenture with Sir William Reardon Smith and Sons Ltd on 17th September 1941 and joined the SS Madras City at Middlesborough, a ship he served on until 21st of April 1943. A month later he joined the Empire Cheer (later to become Cornish City) a ship he was to serve on until 16th October 1944 when he was released to sit for his Second Mates Certificate.
On obtaining his Second Mates Certificate he he rejoined RSL and was appointed third mate on the Empire Baxter on 8th February 1945. He served on various RSL ships as third and second officer. he obtained his Masters Certificate on 10th September 1951 and was appointed chief officer of the Bradford City on 3rd December 1951. he resigned from RSL in April 1953. He was to remain at sea for a further six and a half years, finally coming ashore in December 1959.
Early in 1960 he commenced working in the Bristol Channel area as a Marine and Cargo Surveyor. He became well known and respected by P&I clubs, Shipping Companies, and the sea fraternity. He retired in 1990 and enjoyed an active retirement.
He will be missed by all these friends. We send our sympathy to his wife, Sheila, and to his family.
Published in Shipmates Issue 12 September 1999.