Max Romer (1934 – 2021)
(Joe's 1945 – 1953)
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Joseph Max Romer was born on 11th Aug 1934 at Clayton le Moors, the son of
Bertram Romer, a radio dealer and repairer and Jane Romer, nee Proctor. His
paternal great grandfather had been a gem dealer from France while his mother
came from a long line of cotton weavers. He was the first of four siblings.
He attended St Charles Primary School, Rishton and, aged ten, he was packed
off to board at Joe’s with his brother, Paul. He found the atmosphere harsh,
grim, austere and menacing and, while there were some who rebelled, he yielded
to it albeit unwillingly. After completing the Sixth Form, he went up to
Liverpool University to read Medicine.
Max qualified as a doctor in 1958 and almost immediately was called up for
National Service. He was posted to Cyprus where he served at the military
hospital. By 1963 he had achieved the rank of Major.
In 1960, he returned home to marry Maureen McCann, who he had been courting
for ten years. He took his bride back to Cyprus where they stayed for three
years before Max was posted to the Army Air Corps base in Middle Wallop,
Hampshire.
After demob in 1964, Max went to Blackpool Victoria Hospital to study
obstetrics and worked as a locum at several local practices. In 1965 he set up
his own practice in Thornton and in 1970 merged with Dr Andrew’s practice to
form what is now The Village Practice at Church Rd, Thornton. There he earned
a reputation as an able and considerate practitioner, popular with patients
and colleagues. He retired from practice in 1994 but continued to work in
Medicine at local hospitals and medical practices.
In 1997 he became the Founder President of the local Rotary club, Rotary North
Fylde where he remained a prominent member for the rest of his life. In 2020
he was awarded The Paul Harris Fellowship Ruby Grade for distinguished service
to Rotary. A keen golfer, Max was a Past President of Fleetwood Golf Club. He
was a member of the Joe’s community serving as President for the years 2018
and 2019. He was a regular worshipper at St Teresa’s Church, Cleveleys where
he formed the Parish visiting group.
Max is survived by his wife, Maureen, three children and six grandchildren.
May he rest in peace.