Project Manager Frank
Swanston Crosses Final Finish Line
From Pam Swanston
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for all the kind messages
which have been left on this condolence page.
At this time of deepest sadness we can take some comfort from knowing
how much you all cared about this wonderful modest man who we all loved
so much and who loved us.
Although our lives seem so empty at the moment and we feel an enormous
sense of loss we are thankful for the time we had with Frank, he was
simply the “best time of our lives”.
Pam , 5 September 2007
From Nicky,(daughter) and Kyle and Taylor (grandchildren)
Dad, you were one in a million, will miss your smile and your hugs
more
than I can say.
Grandad Bushybeard we called you and you called us Squiblets. We miss
you.
Nicky, Kyle and Taylor, 4 September 2007
From "Landspeed" Louise Ann Noeth, Member: Board of Directors/Motor
Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers & Broadcasters, Society of
Automotive Historians, Western Automotive Journalists
He had only walked the salt once in his life but he made an
indelible impression – on me, SCTA, and everyone who had a chance to
make the acquaintance of Frank Swanston. As Project Manager for the
British Steam Car Challenge, Swanston had come over from the south of
England in 2006 to survey the flats for the team's up coming speed
record attempts.
We spent a week chasing around Speedweek trying to give him, crewmen
Peter Prove and Matt Warr a “lay of the land.” All three were filled
with youthful enthusiasm that only comes from walking the pits, hanging
on the starting line, poking around the inspection lines and being part
of the experiment of speed out on the great white dyno.
The salt virgin trio was quickly infected with the fever and plans were
fermenting even before they left the salt. The high point for me, from a
historical and technical perspective, came during dinner one night where
I had invited Speedweek officials Mike Manghelli and Lee Kennedy to meet
with Swanston, Prove, Warr and team owner Charles Burnett III (CBIII) to
discuss the steam car project.
I knew it was a tall order to get the car sorted out properly from a
safety standpoint because the all the building was being done overseas
and the steam propulsion system would leave most inspectors scratching
their heads about what needed to be there or not. The Brits wanted to be
safe as well as fast – about 225 miles per hour worth.
I knew Kennedy had a background in steam power plants so he was the
logical guy to approach. After the main meal was done, Swanston,
Manghelli, Kennedy and Burnett hunkered down for some serious tech talk.
I was downright impressed as the SCTA fellows fired off a barrage of
pertinent, probing questions and Swanston came back with neat and tidy
answers for each one. His answers were complete and forthcoming, you
could tell the guy didn’t have any hidden agenda and often volunteered
much more information than was asked.
In the end, it was Swanston who instilled a high regard of respect for
the project in the minds of Kennedy and Manghelli. As the night ended I
realized this fellow Swanston was more of a race savvy engineer than I
had figured on. He oozed credibility.
All this flooded back into my mind when CBIII phoned in early August.
With a sorrowful, grief laden voice, he told me that Frank had died that
morning. From a nagging cough that wouldn’t go away to dead in about
three months. Esophageal cancer works nasty fast. Frank had crossed his
final finish line.
Team mate Prove who also worked with Frank at Janspeed, understood the
credibility that attached to the steam project when Frank signed
Me? I’ve wandered through countless working raceshops and I was more
than impressed with how this guy handled not only himself, but how he
inspired others – to reach within themselves to deliver better than they
thought possible.
And another thing -- the shop was quiet yet humming. Having lost half my
hearing as a infant, I’m super-sensitive to sound, or lack of it.
Everyone was engaged, absorbed in their particular task at hand. There
was none of this “Uh Oh, the boss is coming, look busy” goofiness – the
team was motivated. Such motivation comes from the leader; it was
obvious Frank had most uncanny ability to lead with what amounted to a
whisper in comparison to most shops where the clamour of machinery and
loud voices could make you dizzy. Most knew of his engineering prowess,
but I believe his thoughtful consideration for others dwarfed the
mechanical skills.
Losing Frank has got to feel like losing a front tire at 100MPH, you
damn well know you have to get a grip on the situation and until you do,
everything else doesn’t matter at all.
It is crushing to ponder this turn of events. I wasn’t a long-time
colleague, or friend, but you can bet Frank Swanston touched my life in
ways that will forever shape the rest of my life, especially in racing.
Maybe it was time for Frank to open Pearly Gates Engineering. I’m hoping
the Steam Team’s thermodynamic law breaker will be the recipient of some
heavenly hints and celestial safety next year.
Ok, time to take a breath, say a prayer and remember that big smile that
scrunched up his eyes and the hearty, rich chuckle the man always had a
the ready.
And Pam, next time I’m over, its clotted cream, scones and tea on me –
count on it sweetie. I’ll find ya.
Speedy Hugs,
"LandSpeed" Louise, 14 August 2007
From RON & JUDITH BINNINGTON & Family
When we met Frank in Lymington at the March Open Day this year, he
answered
our questions in detail and with great patience, and made us feel
welcome.
A huge loss to the British Steamcar Challenge Team. Our condolences to
his
family.
Ron and Judith Binnington & Family, 14 August 2007
From REBECCA NICHOLLS, Eventageous PR
It was a complete shock to hear the sad news, and I still can’t get
my head around it. I just can’t seem to find the right words to express
my profound sadness. It has been an absolute pleasure working with you.
My thoughts are with Pam, your family and the team at this dreadful
time.
The car will get to Bonny, and your spirit and passion for the project
will live on forever.
Rebecca Nicholls, 10 August 2007
From BRIAN & MARY ANG & FAMILY
I first met Frank in 1972 when I joined Hexagon as a mechanic. Then
he was just my boss, but for me and every other mechanic it was a joy to
work under Frank, for his knowledge and experience of the types of
performance vehicles in the workshop was legion. We all benefited from
his patience and understanding. It was both fun and exciting to go road
testing, being driven by Frank.
In time I was lucky enough to count Frank as a friend. After leaving
London to return to my home in Liverpool, I kept in touch with Frank by
telephone to chat and frequently to pick his substantial brain. To
others this may have been a nuisance, but not Frank, he was always
patient, understanding and very helpful.
Much later, during a visit to my home, he became a good friend to my
wife and kids and we all enjoyed his visit tremendously.
Later on he and Pam were kind enough to invite the four of us to their
home, when we were made most welcome, and felt very much at home. Pam
and Frank were gracious hosts.
The distance between our homes made it difficult to enjoy their company
often, but this was never a bar to our friendship and our regard for Pam
and Frank, though we spoke occasionally by phone.
For Pam and family and everyone whose life Frank touched, his loss will
be immeasurable, and our hearts go out to them all.
I will always have fond memories of Frank, a true friend.
Brian and Mary Ang, 11 August 2007
Message from ISOBEL SWANSTON (Frank's grand-daughter), aged 7.
We all miss you!
You were always kind, nice and cheerful.
On dull and dark days, you have cheered us all up.
We are sad to see you go, but so glad you were here.
Martin Swanston, 9 August 2007
From MICHAEL HODGES, MPH Communications
I am so sorry to hear the news of the passing one of life's kindest and
finest people and most gifted creator of ideas ...My sincerest
respects to Frank's family.
Michael Hodges, 9 August 2007
From PETER WARD, Slough Heat & Power
Not having known Frank for very long and only through the British Steam
Car Challenge his enthusiasm and commitment really instilled the
'Inspiration' to the project and its successful conclusion will be a
fitting epitaph to his memory.
Peter Ward, 9 August 2007
From ADAM RAMSDAN, Goodridge Tyres
I am very sad to hear this news, and it has been a pleasure to be
involved with this project, and to work with a great innovator
Please pass on my condolences to the family and friends of Frank
I am sorry that I will not be able to attend, as I am working overseas
With best regards to you and all the team
Adam Ramsdan, 9 August 2007
From JASON PLATO
Frank was without doubt, one of life’s few, true gentlemen. He had an
infectious passion for everything he did, especially his love for his
wife Pam, their family and friends. A lovely man who will be deeply
missed by many. My most sincere condolences.
Jason Plato, 8 August 2007
From JIM REED
I did not know Frank or about his life. The loss of anyone dedicated to
high performance steam power would be sadly missed. Loosing such a
guiding light involved with such a great project is truly devastating.
Jim Reed, 8 August 2007
From BRUCE & MARTHA SCHOLTEN
Godspeed Frank Swanston.
Rest in peace.
Bruce & Martha Scholten, 8 August 2007
From DAVE NORTON, Flowserve Corporation
I am so very sorry to hear. Please convey my sympathies to the family.
Dave Norton, 8 August 2007
From MARGUS H. KUUSE
Please give Mrs. Swanston deepest condolences from behalf of Estonian
speed freaks (and Estonia with its formula car - over 1300 built - and
racing bike manufacturing was the seat of speed in the USSR).
Margus H. Kuuse, 8 August 2007
From JOHN COXON
Sorry to hear the sad news. Please convey my deepest sympathy to the
rest of the team and especially his poor wife Pam and their family. My
thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
John Coxon, 8 August 2007
From MAX GLASKIN
So sorry to learn the bad news. Frank was always so helpful and
generous. It's a sad loss.
Max Glaskin, 8 August 2007
From GRAHAM JONES, European Minardi Team
Frank and I crossed paths on two occasions, the first when I was
working as a journalist for Cars and Car Conversions magazine,
and he as chief engineer at Janspeed, and the second, when I was writing
for the Castrol Motorsport newsletter, and covering the
Janspeed-prepared Nissan Primeras in the British Touring Car
Championship. On all occasions when we met, or when I spoke with him on
the telephone, Frank couldn't have been more patient, helpful or
informative, despite obviously being a very busy man with a lot of
demands on his time. As others have observed in their tributes, he was
real gentleman, and always seemed to make time for those he could sense
had a genuine passion for cars, engineering and motorsport. Sadly, he
now joins a small, but special, personal list of individuals I have
known in the sport, all of whom have departed far too early. My sincere
condolences to his family and friends on their loss.
Graham Jones, 7 August 2007
From OLE BUHL, Ole Buhl Racing
Frank was a talented and gifted engineer, for whom challenges were
merely opportunities for innovation.
I first worked with him during 1997 on the Rover Land Speed record. I
was immediately struck by, not only his skill, but his placid, calm and
thorough approach. Other UK based projects were to follow, convincing me
of the need to move my motorsport business from Denmark to the UK. Frank
gave me every encouragement and support, enabling the successful
transfer of both my family and business to the UK. For this, I remain
ever grateful to him.
Frank was a generous and resourceful individual who always made time for
others. He was a person of enormous skill and knowledge both
professionally and personally, with an unassuming manner which commanded
utmost respect from all who were fortunate to know him.
I shall remember Frank as a valued friend and business associate.
Motorsport has lost a highly respected engineer and his family have lost
a husband, father and grandfather. We have all lost a true gentleman.
Ole Buhl, 7 August 2007
From DENNIS A. DUDZIK, President, International Association for the
Advancement of Stream Power
We are saddened to hear of the death of Frank Swanston and wish to
express our sincere and heartfelt sympathies to Frank's family and the
members of the British Steam Car Challenge team. All of us working
in modern steam power development will feel the loss of Frank's
experience, expertise and passion.
Please extend our sincere condelences to Frank's family and the British
Steam Car Challenge Team.
Dennis A. Dudzik, 6 August 2007
From RICK PLUMMER, Spirax-Sarco Ltd
I was really shocked and saddened to hear of Frank's untimely death.
Frank was always a pleasure to deal with when he called me about some
steam question, or to see if any of our products might be suitable for
the car or for testing purposes. He was always soft spoken yet knew what
he wanted out of the call. I have spoken to colleagues here at Spirax
and they join me in sending our condolences and sympathy to your
close-knit team, and of course to his wife Pam. Frank will be a huge
loss to all of you.
Rick Plummer, 6 August 2007
From CHRIS PIERCY, Images at Work
As a person with only limited knowledge of things mechanical, a
conversation with Frank left me feeling truly enlightened and enriched.
He would steer you through the most complex of answers to question which
you would only dare ask him, he never made you feel self conscious or
inadequate. A true Gentleman!
"Heaven will be a better place for having you Frank, and speed has
always been a part of your life on earth, we just wish you had not left
us so quickly"!
Chris Piercy, 7 August 2007
From GARY & TOM, YA Logistics
We are very shocked to hear the sad passing of Frank even though both
Tom & I had not had the pleasure of knowing Frank for that long, it was
still a pleasure to have the opportunity to have met Frank .
Please can you pass on to Frank's Family our deepest sympathy.
Gary & Tom, 7 August 2007
From SARAH HARVEY, Personal Friend
Pam and Frank lived next door to us when they lived at Ford nr Salisbury
for over 10 years. They became the very best of friends to us, enjoying
many good times and providing support during difficult times, as we did
to them. They also introduced me to my current employer, Ole Buhl, when
he moved his motorsport business and family to the UK from Denmark. I
first heard the devastating news at work about Frank, before Pam phoned
us at home later that evening. Working with him you will understand he
was "one in a million", a man with so many wonderful qualities, rarely
seen in one person. He will be especially missed by so many.
Sarah Harvey, 7 August 2007
From JOHN GETTY, CHAIRMAN, PDS Engineering
In the world of speed records and advanced engineering in which we
operate there are a few characters who really stand out. Frank Swanston
was one of those people, although he spoke with a 'southern' accent his
sense of humour and positive approach endeared him to all us
'northerners' at PDS.
Having worked with Frank for the last couple of years I can honestly say
I have enjoyed his company and he will be sorely missed by the people at
our end of the steam car operation.
To Pam and Frank's family I offer my deepest sympathies and although I
know mere words are not enough I hope she can take some comfort in
knowing the respect that Frank commanded among the engineering
fraternity.
A sad loss indeed !
John Getty, 6 August 2007
From DAVID BURDITT, Daytron Technology
Thank you for the e-mail with the sad news about Frank. I had
spoken to him many times in recent years but only met him the once when
I came down to Lymington at the end of March this year.
His kind and helpful personality was always to the fore. He'd even tried
to help my son track down some rare Janspeed performance parts for his
Vauxhall Chevette, unsuccessfully unfortunately - but he did try hard to
do so.
It's a great loss I'm sure to his family and friends, BSCC and the world
of motorsport in general. A true enthusiast.
David Burditt, 6 August 2007
From RAY WAKEFIELD, Speed Record South Africa
My condolences to all of you. Please pass on my deepest sympathy and
respect to his wife and family.
All very, very sad.
Ray Wakefield, 4 August 2007
From ROGER BELL
What awful news. What a terrible loss. Please let me know where and when
the funeral will be.
Roger Bell, 3 August 2007
From JIM REGO, BUB Tech Support
VERY SORRY to hear your loss.
Didn't know the man but by his description in your letter, sounded like
one heck of a man!
Good luck at the Speed Trials, he'll be watching you, so do good!
Jim Rego, 3 August 2007
From MIKE DEWHURST,CTG Limited
This has come as a great shock and fills me with sadness. Frank will be
sincerely missed.
Mike Dewhurst, 3 August 2007
From AFANDI DARLINGTON, Optimal Aerodynamics
I am very sorry to hear of Frank’s death – I only met him a couple of
times but he came across as a gentlemen with deep technical ability. He
will clearly be missed.
Afandi Darlington, 3 August 2007
From STEPHEN HARPAM, Merck Chemicals
I only ever met Frank about 5/6 times but what was clear is that he was
a dedicated, hard working and genuine person, please accept my
condolences from everyone here at Merck Chemicals. Our thoughts are with
his family.
Stephen Harpam, 3 August 2007
From LEANIE WELCH – Bodycote
Very sad news. My sincere condolences to the Steam Car Team and Frank’s
family.
Leanie Welch, 3 August 2007
From PAUL MICHAELS
Paul Michaels, owner of Hexagon of Highgate, was deeply saddened by the
news and would like to express his heartfelt condolences to Frank’s
family. Frank worked for Hexagon for many years. He was
initially employed as a mechanic, but Paul soon realised what an
incredibly talented engineer Frank was and almost instantly promoted him
to workshop manager, and then across to Hexagon Brabham Formula 1 Racing
Team. Frank was instrumental in John Watson’s success in 1974 season.
Paul Michaels, 2 August
2007
From IAIN P W ROBERTSON
As a motoring journalist of
the past thirty+ years, I bump into, collide with and have memories of
many people, who have been key to my career and about whom I have
written. Frank Swanston was one of a very small group of real,
larger-than-life characters about whom death was never an option. They
were immortal. Yet, the very use of the past tense highlights an
important criterion. They are no longer with us.
Frank Swanston was somebody that I feared immensely. When I first came
into contact with him, he was working with Janspeed Ltd, the
Salisbury-based tuning and engineering firm. Although I had been friends
with Jan Odor for many years, and naturally his son, Kieth, both that
great man and his much-adored son often deferred to Frank on matters
related to vehicle engineering. Yet, I was afraid of even going into his
working office in the bowels of the company. He was a "hands-on"
engineer of the very highest calibre and I scarcely knew him, although I
knew a lot about him.
However, at our first meeting, I discovered a man of great intensity,
who knew and understood his work so well that whatever solutions he
provided were often the definitive examples. Our second meeting was like
being in the company of an old friend. We had already created a
tremendous empathy. In truth, I never got to know Frank exceedingly
well. Yet, that did not stop us enjoying a very dear, if highly
respectful, from my side, friendship. I knew of his wife, Pam, to whom
he was totally devoted, and I knew of his family, but I never really got
to know them all, personally.
Frank remained one of the most delightful people I have ever known in
this hurly-burly business. Whenever I had a question, he would
invariably proffer an answer. His warm smile, his warm heart, his
endeavour never to suffer fools with too much gladness were aspects of a
great man, whom I shall never forget. Frank Swanston was my friend and I
shall remain forever proud that I knew him and had been touched by his
unique humanity.
IAIN P W ROBERTSON, 3 August 2007
From JEREMY WALTON
Frank was a compassionate gentleman who modestly his his enormous
practical and theoretical engineering talents behind his everyday appeal
as a warm and patient human being.
In 40 years dealing with the motor racing business and one glorious
season racing with Keith Odor under Frank's stewardship, I never dealt
with a finer gentleman.
His achievements are public knowledge in the business, but my sincere
sympathy goes to those who had the privilege of knowing him privately.
Frank was a treat to work with, so his loss amongst those who shared his
life, particularly his wife Pam, can only be imagined.
Jeremy Walton, 3 August
2007
From BARBIE MCSEAN & STEVE GEORGII
We first met Frank at the British Steam Car Challenge offices in
Lymington, where he had recently joined the team. It soon became
very clear to us that he had a vast knowledge of motorsport and
engineering, all of which would be invaluable to the project.
Whilst Frank's passing will leave a gap at Lymington, it is hard to
imagine what this must mean for Frank's family and close friends.
Barbie McSean, 4 August 2007
If you would like to send a message of condolence, please send an email
to
steamcar@harlequinhouse.com
Last updated 4 September 2007
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