Page 29 - The Old Ratcliffian 2010

The Old Ratcliffan 2010 | Obituaries Remembering Fr Dennis Hare I.C. My first impression, in the early forties, was that he seemed to be a quiet, yet observant youngster in shorts beholding the ‘cabbage patch’ as his new territory, having arrived from 2nd Division. It was only many years later that it became evident that Dennis was another Ratcliffian who had joined the Order. The catastrophic fire in the College happened whilst Fr Dennis was Bursar. At that time, quite a number of Ratcliffe Old Boys, now Rosminians, were on active service in Rosmini College, Takapuna and St Peter’s Gore in New Zealand. Being so far away, they could not join in the mainstream life of the Association, so the notion of a visit to New Zealand was born. Fr Provincial, Tom Kearns, was approached to endorse the visit of the President of the Association to go out there, accompanied by a member of the Order, free of charge, who would plan the itinerary and accommodation. Dennis was selected as having most need of a break. Dennis felt uplifted as he would see his brother, Michael, again, then at Rosmini College, as well as his Rosminian brothers throughout. His bespoke plan of action – so beautifully thought out – included the twinning of Rosmini College and St Peters alumni with the Ratcliffian Association, as well as a Reception we hosted, to meet Ratcliffians and parents living in Hong Kong. I recall Peter Tabar, who was himself a Head Teacher, coming along to celebrate the occasion. The Premier agent for Musical Instruments was pleased to be honoured with an invitation. He was Chinese and Methodist and confided that he felt Dennis was indeed a holy man. Certainly, he has consistently remained thus – and a good companion, too! May Dennis rest in peace. Clifford Della Porta Fr Dennis Hare with pupils from Grace Dieu during a Service of First Holy Communion Register online www.ratcliffanassociation.co.uk 2