Rip Laputian

1st October 2006, 05:38 PM

Lappy's mate, George, phoned me a few moments ago to tell me that Sean (Lappy's real name) passed away yesterday morning. George said that he hadn't been very well for some time, and was being treated by McMillan nurses.
His full name was Sean Hewitson, and he was 52. He originated from Kibblesworth and went to Chester le Street Grammar school. As many people on the SMB suspected he was very intelligent and after gaining a degree he went on to become a Ph. D. in computer sciences. He was unmarried, and had four sisters. He lived in Jesmond, Newcastle, and thought nothing of walking through the city in his Sunderland colours

George assures me that, although much of his humour was confrontational, it was almost always to try and wind people up. I'm ashamed to admit that once or twice even I snapped, but he wouldn't have been offended.
His knowledge of the history of SAFC was almost encyclopaedic, and although I was six years his senior, I think he will have attended more games than I have. He was even a regular attender at SJP in their reasonable days.
He also had a great knowledge of music and was an accomplished guitarist. Particular favourites of his were Hank Williams ("Luke the Drifter"), Neil Young and Bob Dylan.
The SMB has lost a long time member and knowledgeable contributor.

RIP