Obituary

Citation

Walker, J.B. (1999), "Obituary", Circuit World, Vol. 25 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/cw.1999.21725aaf.003

Obituary

Reuben Josephs, Hon. FInst CT

Reuben Josephs, past-chairman and the original driving force behind the Institute of Circuit technology (ICT), died on 6 August 1998, after a long illness, at the age of 75, having spent a lifetime of dedication to the electronics industry.

Born on 20 December 1922, Reuben read Physics at King's College, Durham University, graduating with Honours in 1948, after a spell of service as an officer in the RAF, during the Second World War. He became a demonstrator in physics at his old college, undertook research on telecommunications at BICC Ltd, Liverpool, and noise and vibration in marine gear turbines at the Pametrada Research Station, Wallsend-on-Tyne.

This was followed by various management appointments over a period of 20 years, culminating with executive directorships in Elliot Automation Accessories Ltd and S. Davall & Sons Ltd, before joining Nevin Electric Ltd, as managing director.

From 1968 to his retirement, in 1989, he was, through his expertise and energy, instrumental in building up Nevin to be in the top ten printed circuit manufacturers in the UK, as well as diversifying his company's activities into video display products.

Reuben's interests were broad-based, one such being service on the Council of the Association of Independent Businesses.

Reuben Josephs became chairman of the Council of the ICT in 1977 and, under his guidance, a committee was formed with the intention of organising a World Conference on Printed Circuits. This led to Reuben becoming chairman of the Joint Operating Committee and in 1978 the first Printed Circuit World Convention was held at the Café Royal, in London. It was a great success, with more than 1,000 delegates attending from all over the world.

Reuben Josephs played a major role, when unification talks took place between the ICT and the Printed Circuit Association (PCA), sitting on the steering committee. The outcome of these discussions resulted in the formation, in 1988, of the Printed Circuit Interconnection Federation. The ICT took its place in the new body to represent individuals in the industry in matters of technology and to arrange training and technical symposia.

Reuben will always be remembered for his dedication to the many causes in which he became involved, but failing health began to take its toll and his activities were gradually curtailed. Regrettably, he will miss the 25th anniversary of the ICT, which will take place in 1999, one year after his death.

He leaves a wife, Hazel, and two children, Neil and Bettina.

John B. WalkerHon. Sec., ICT