A SIGNIFICANT and highly-respected figure in the maritime industry, Captain Frank Lawrence, unfortunately passed away on 17 August, aged 93.
Captain Frank Lawrence recently had a book written about his riveting-life by journalist Mike Fennell, entitled ‘Navigating a Passage Through Life’. This biography lists the joys and risks which Frank ‘Hurricane’ Lawrence overcame during a tough and exciting life at sea.
The RNLI posted a statement on Facebook, where the said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Capt. Frank “Hurricane” Lawrence”
“Away from rescues, Frank gave back tirelessly, mentoring younger crew, supporting station life and fundraising for the RNLI when he swapped sea boots for running shoes.”
“Our thoughts are with Denis, Peter, Susan, Francis, and James. and their respective families, and with Frank’s many friends across Jersey’s maritime community.”
“A former harbour pilot and lifeboatman through and through.”
Former Harbourmaster and long time friend, Brian Nibbs, also left a tribute to the late Frank Lawrence.
“Apart from being a friend of long standing, I knew Frank in a range of professional marine capacities.”
“In the early 1970’s, I got to know Frank as a member of the Company of Town Pilots during the time I I was ‘driving’ the Jersey registered ro/ro passenger vessel Fleur Des Iles. Later, during my two periods at Jersey Harbours, I knew Frank as a respected and extremely competent RNLI lifeboat cox’n and more so latterly, in my capacity as Hon. Sec. to the Jersey Branch, RNLI.”
“When I was at Huelin-Renouf Shipping in the 1990’s , I had the pleasure of engaging Frank as Master of the 350 passenger Cross Channel Ferry ‘Devoniun’, a role he embraced with his considerable experience and pilotage skills.”
“In the early 2000’s, Frank and I were proud to be awarded the Fellowship of the Royal Institute of Navigation, creating a common bond between us.”
“Frank’s extensive marine experience, especially that gained during his early days, will not be repeated. It was a pleasure to have known him. He was a true maritime professional of which Jersey can be proud.”
