01-09-2021, 10:11 AM
Tragically I must pass on news of the death of Steve Sawaryn. After his family, chess was one of Steve’s main passions. He could often be seen in action on the East coast congress circuit, plus trips to the Oban tournaments to indulge in the Royal Game. His quiet and impeccable conduct during a game, win, lose or draw, was respected by all his opponents. In recent years he took over the Presidency of the North East Junior Chess Association (NEJCA) and continued furtherance of the love of chess in local juniors. He was also responsible for organising the Scottish Girls event at Lathallan castle on behalf of Chess Scotland. He was also a key member of the Junior Home Board. He was an excellent organiser and presented an open and honest approach to everything he did and this inspired both respect and loyalty from his support team. He was unflappable and never once raised his voice. A rock in what could sometimes be the maelstrom of junior chess! He was always ready to assist people struggling with difficulties in life and become a trusted confidante.
At 66 he had many years of active life before him, alternating between Aberdeenshire and Mallorca, where he and Maria had bought a second home a few years ago. Unfortunately, he was recently diagnosed with angina, following some struggles during hillwalking, and he died at home of heart failure.
Steve’s departure leaves a large hole in many lives, especially for Maria and his three children. There is also the loss to the Scottish chess community. His character was described by one of his chess colleagues as kind, capable, diplomatic and enthusiastic. Not many of us would deserve such a fulsome epitaph, but he did!
At 66 he had many years of active life before him, alternating between Aberdeenshire and Mallorca, where he and Maria had bought a second home a few years ago. Unfortunately, he was recently diagnosed with angina, following some struggles during hillwalking, and he died at home of heart failure.
Steve’s departure leaves a large hole in many lives, especially for Maria and his three children. There is also the loss to the Scottish chess community. His character was described by one of his chess colleagues as kind, capable, diplomatic and enthusiastic. Not many of us would deserve such a fulsome epitaph, but he did!