Book of Remembrance of

David Bartram

David Bartram

David was a much loved friend and veterinary colleague. This book is to collect memories of David’s work, his care for others, and the difference he made.

The book will be closed before the end of 2021, and a printed copy will be shared with his family.

If you knew David, or his work made a difference to you, please post your memories here.

Thank you. 

Book Owner: Rosie Allister
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Paul Crocker

I had the privilege of knowing David for nearly 40 years.  Brilliant is the best word to describe him.  He was one of the most intelligent people I have ever met.  Once David was interested in a subject he pursued it with enthusiasm, there were no half measures in anything he did.  He was a pioneer in the scientific study of mental health in the veterinary profession, always seeking empirical evidence and sceptical of anecdote. David was always trying to help others in more direct ways, amongst other things he was a Samaritans volunteer and COVID vaccinator.  He was one of my closest friends.  Our times at the RVC with our mutual friend C were some of the best of my life.  David always had a great sense of humour, and the image I have of him in my mind is of him laughing over some joke or amusing story.  His passing has left a large hole in our lives, but I feel mine has been enriched for knowing him.  David will be sorely missed by many people …

Jonathan Clarke

So sorry to hear of your passing.  Many happy memories from our school days – you were always super enthusiastic, energetic and you had the greatest sense of humour ever !  …

Mandisa Greene

David and I were new to RCVS Council together along with Sue Paterson in 2014.  As newbies to Council we became friends checking in with each others understanding of this bold new world,he was always humble and ever so kind.  I also worked with David as a Vet life volunteer and he shared with me his passion for giving back to the professions he loved so dearly.  My condolences to his family and all who knew him, he will be missed.   …

Debbie Stoewen

How does one choose the words? I’m sitting here pausing, knowing words won’t be able to capture what is felt. I only had chance to meet David once, at a conference. I had to wait my turn, so sought after was he. It was such a pleasure to finally chat with him – knowledgeable, yes, but defined by passion, grace, and a humble spirit. A kindly, caring soul. I’m grateful for the time we shared. I’ve followed David’s research over these many years and cited him over and over again – and will continue to do so. He opened doors, not just to the recognition of the mental health challenges in the profession, but the solutions as well, what we can do to make things better. He was truly a leader and, in his leadership, left a legacy. My sincere condolences to you, his family, for your loss. You are the closest to David, the life he led, and the difference he made. It’s been said, “What makes night within us may leave stars.” Just look up… I believe the sky is brighter because of him. …

Paul

David was a kind considerate and valued friend. His contributions to the profession were wide ranging through ruminant health to mental well-being and his contributions were always well researched and constructively delivered. He was also excellent company and had a zany sense of humour. I will miss him and was shocked to hear of his passing when he had so much more to offer. …

Mark Turner

I was sad to read about David’s passing. While I did not know him well, I did meet him once at a veterinary conference where he was speaking. I approached him after the meeting, feeling quite self conscious and he immediately put me at ease with his genuine and warm demeanour. He was an inspiration to me as an advocate for better mental health in the profession – talking with integrity, and articulating a poorly understood (at the time) but incredibly important subject. I have no doubt he has played a crucial role in the development of a contemporary mental health discourse that is kinder and more open. I for one, have been a beneficiary of that. …

Sian Griffith

It was with great shock and sadness that I heard of Dave’s death. I first met Dave at the RVC 34 yrs ago when he was a student and he always stood out as someone who would make his mark on the profession, and he surely did that. Through the years we would meet from time to time, mainly to liaise about mental health issues in UK vet and vet nursing professions. He was always so warm, friendly and helpful, offering some guidance with my dissertation about veterinary suicide. You couldn’t find anyone with more empathy than Dave and he will be greatly missed.  My sincere condolences to his family and friends.  …

Ken Thomas

I first met David when he joined the Willows Francis team in the late 90’s, where he immediately put his marketing hat on to champion the successful roll out of Cydectin.  As part of the management team he was always able to shed great clarity to almost any issue up for discussion.  Surely one of nature’s gems who was kind, generous and always available with his time and council It was therefore with great sadness that I learned of his death.  On a personal level he was the sort of good friend we would all like to have.  I was fortunate enough to be one of those people and I will miss him greatly. My sincere condolences to his daughter Charlotte and family. …

Rob Smith

Sad news.  Dave and I were in the same year at the RVC. I got the sense  early on that he would go far in his chosen profession. His contribution to veterinary mental health support made a real difference.  David, the RVC class of 88 will miss you. R         …