Derek Albert Pegram
Well known in Shanklin as the President of Shanklin Hotel & Accommodation Association (SHAA), until recently Chairman of Age UK in Shanklin, and an active member of the Friends of Shanklin Theatre Committee, Derek will be missed not only by his family but by many in the local community following his recent sudden death.
Derek was born in North London on 23rd September 1930, where after leaving school he worked as a ‘potato man’ and a confectionary rep, but outside of his day job he was very active in the scouting movement, was an accomplished dancer and played drums in his own professional Jazz Band, playing the London circuit in the 50s and 60s.
In 1955 Derek married Maureen, and as a couple they were extremely proficient dancers, teaching dancing with a leading London dance school where their achievements included coaching Marilyn Monroe for the 1957 film the “Prince and the Showgirl”. It seems Ms Monroe emerged from her on-set trailer on only a handful of occasions, although Derek and Maureen were not overly concerned as they were being paid over the odds by the Pinewood Studios film company on a daily basis!
Derek and Maureen moved to the Island in 1978, and for many years ran the Rowborough Hotel on Arthurs Hill. Derek became very involved with SHAA, and was twice Chairman and ultimately Life President, and for many years edited the Shanklin Guardian and the annual “Welcome to Shanklin” visitor booklet. Derek was active in supporting charitable activities with the Round Table, and subsequently with the 41 Club.
Derek and Maureen had three sons, Andrew and Barry survive him, but their third son Alan died of MS in 1999, and after over 50 years spent together Maureen died in 2006.
Derek has always been a good leader and an inspiration to those working with him. “Not possible” and “can’t be done” were never options in his vocabulary, yet at the same time he was a very modest man, not seeking plaudits for what he achieved. Derek was a good man, a kind man, a man you could trust, and certainly a man you could rely on at all times, especially in adversity. He was dearly loved by many, and will be sadly missed by many more.
Chris Quirk
