David Giddings writes
I first got to know Bernard Gorgeu by way of the RSYC Channel Triangle and Double Handed races.
Arriving at the Deauville Yacht Club to finish a race, I could always rely on Bernard for a warm welcome and a cold beer. Aided by Vice President Nils Andersen, he would ensure that everything was in place for the event to run smoothly and the crews looked after.
The committee boat for the following leg of the race was invariably Bravo Golf, which Bernard himself would skipper and provide any additional race officers needed. The atmosphere was invariably relaxed until the call to action Attention! Cinq minutes! Equally invariably, after the fleet had been seen off safely, we would adjourn for beer followed by a good meal. The French have got their priorities right.
Bernard was a member of the Deauville Yacht Club for 50 years, President for over ten years and was instrumental in the foundation of the club’s sailing school and its J/80 and JOD 35 fleet. He was Mayor of Pennedepie from 1983-2008, had been a dedicated Dragon sailor, a glider and light aircraft pilot and at the age of 80 became a qualified race officer, the oldest person in France to gain this status.
He was a man of integrity, intelligence and vision and I felt privileged to know him.
Over 200 people attended his funeral on March 4 at the Eglise Saint-Georges in Pennedepie above the Seine estuary between Deauville and Honfleur. The small church was full to bursting and many stood outside in a strong and bitterly cold wind to listen to the service. The reception afterwards was held at in the splendid function centre built nearby by Bernard and run by his son Pascal.
Bob Milner and I presented bouquets on behalf of the Royal Southampton, Royal London and JOG. We recalled with particular affection and gratitude Bernard’s unwavering friendship and the loyal support he has given to our clubs. I am sure that everyone who knew him will want to join us in offering sincere condolences to his family and friends and to the Deauville Yacht Club.
4,
Long time friend of the Royal Southampton, Bernard Gorgeu, president of the Deauville Yacht Club has died at the age of 86.
David GIddings, Royal Southampton's former Rear Commodore Sailing, recalls his memories of Bernard.
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