A tribute to Evan – “Kindness personified”

Our school community has been left with a feeling of deep sorrow and shock since the death of Remove pupil Evan Rothwell, on Saturday, November 16.

We are honoured and grateful to have had the opportunity to play a small part in the life of such a remarkable young man; the magnitude of Evan’s loss and the outpouring of love for him and his family from so many across Chester and beyond is a true reflection of how exceptional he was.

Evan is described by Headmaster George Hartley as “as a bright, joyful and fun-loving classmate, with an intellectual curiosity that belied his young years.”

He said: “Our thoughts remain with Evan’s family who are suffering this heartbreaking loss. As a school community, we have drawn great strength from the many messages of support and from the countless tributes being paid to Evan.

“He touched so many lives with his exuberant, ebullient and charming nature and he would have no doubt continued to inspire all those around him, both old and young, for many years to come.

“I have been extremely proud of the strength and unity shown by our pupils, staff and parents, who are devastated by the loss of Evan.”

Having flourished as a pupil at St Werburgh’s Primary school, Evan was named as one of this year’s King’s Entry Scholars, which is awarded to those who gain the highest marks in our Entrance Assessments.

Evan’s Head of Year said: “Evan arrived at King’s in September with an enormous smile and a sense of fun that brought joy to everyone he encountered. As a King’s Scholar, he showcased an insatiable appetite to learn about the world. In his form, he was a dedicated charity rep who was committed to bringing new ideas and excitement to his tutor group.”

Evan was particularly engaged with cocurricular life at school, and had taken part in 17 clubs and activities in his first term. He was a regular and much-loved face in the school library, where he indulged his veracious passion for reading.

They said: “Outside of the classroom, Evan could be found in all areas of school life; belly laughing in Dungeons and Dragons Club, catching up with friends in the library whilst taking out his latest read and making a big splash in the swimming pool.”

Messages remembering and celebrating Evan’s cheerful and engaging nature have been left by staff and pupils in the Memory and Condolences Book in school. They reflect how Evan would always lend a helping hand, offer words of encouragement, and bring positivity to every situation.

Whether it was his passion for his studies, or his ability to bring people together with his infectious laughter, memories of Evan will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Evan’s Head of Year added: “He was kindness personified and there has not been a single student who we have encountered over the past week who hasn’t made a comment on the happiness Evan carried with him throughout the school day.

“The way he lived his life – full of wonder and enthusiasm- is something that will stay with us all forever.”

We hope to work closely with Evan’s family to create a fitting and lasting legacy to him at King’s. In the meantime, please follow this link to contribute towards Evan’s favourite charities – Crowdfunding to remember Evan and donate to the charities which mean a great deal to his family. on JustGiving