Obituary: S. Forbes Pearson

Obituary¹:

Stephen Forbes Pearson was the eldest child of Stephen H. Pearson, an engineer from Northumberland, and Gladys Stewart, a native of Glasgow. He was born in Pollokshields, Glasgow, on 25 June 1931 and attended Paisley Grammar School followed by Kelvinside Academy. He displayed a keen intellect and a passion for learning from a young age, particularly in the field of natural sciences. Despite encountering health challenges during his teenage years due to pleurisy, he remained active in rugby, finding his niche as a front row forward.

While considering following his grandfather's footsteps into medicine, Forbes ultimately pursued mechanical engineering at the University of Glasgow, graduating in 1953. During his undergraduate years, he gained practical experience at the Rolls Royce factory in Hillington and the Tecumseh compressor factory in Michigan. His father's involvement with Tecumseh Products, particularly in establishing Europe's first production line for hermetic compressors, laid the groundwork for Forbes's interest in refrigeration technology.

After completing his degree, Forbes continued his studies at the Royal College of Science and Technology in Glasgow, focusing on valve design for reciprocating compressors under the supervision of Dr Jimmy Brown. This academic partnership would endure, leading to numerous collaborative projects in refrigeration technology. Forbes's dedication to his studies was matched only by his commitment to practical application, as demonstrated by his work at the Torry Research Station in Aberdeen, where he developed freezing techniques for fish preservation.

In April 1959, Forbes married Jean Lyall and returned to Glasgow, where he joined his father's company, L Sterne and Co's Crown Iron Works, as Chief Engineer. His tenure at Sterne saw him involved in the design of industrial compressors, heat exchangers, and refrigeration systems. In 1970, Forbes, along with colleagues Bert Campbell and Anthony Brown, founded Star Refrigeration Ltd, focusing on innovative engineering solutions for industrial refrigeration needs.

Forbes's contributions to refrigeration technology were vast and varied, ranging from system configurations to novel refrigerant fluids. His pioneering work in developing refrigerants suited to extreme operating conditions earned him international recognition, including the Gustav Lorentzen Medal from the International Institute of Refrigeration. Additionally, Forbes played a significant role in promoting safety standards and technical advancements within the refrigeration industry, earning accolades from professional organisations such as the International Institute of Refrigeration.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Forbes was deeply committed to his faith and community. He actively participated in church activities, youth programs, and community initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on those he encountered. Forbes's legacy extends beyond his family, encompassing generations influenced by his exemplary character and unwavering dedication to his principles.

Forbes passed away peacefully on 14 March 2024, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, integrity, and compassion. He is survived by his wife, Jean, and their children, Muriel, Libby, Stephen, Andy, and Dave. The IIR sends its sincerest condolences.

S. F. Pearson and the IIR

S.Forbes Pearson, IIR honorary member, was awarded the IIR’s most important medal, the Gustav Lorentzen Medal, in 2003 for all his life’s work. But he also continued to serve the IIR for years, notably by writing IIR documents: an Informatory Note “how to improve energy efficiency in refrigerating equipment” (2005), a guide “saving energy in refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump technology” (2008), one of IIR’s bestsellers. He is a personnality that all IIR members remember and appreciate, both for his role within the IIR and as a symbol of Scotland.

S. F Pearson

⁽¹⁾ Source: https://ior.org.uk/news/dr-s-forbes-pearson