Vale Robin Bell
It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of Robin Alexander Ian Bell, who died peacefully on 12 June 2026, aged 86.
Robin holds a special place in Burgmann's history as the College's first Vice Master, and those who were residents in the early years remember him fondly.
As one founding alum reflected: "In a college of extremely memorable characters, Robin was at the zenith. Although slightly older than the original Burgmann intake, he exuded an irrepressible sense of fun and joie de vivre, traits not usually associated with nuclear physicists.”
Robin’s warmth and hospitality were legendary, not least his famous "Elevenses," the Sunday morning gin and tonic gatherings he hosted in his flat, which became the most eagerly anticipated social event of the week.
Robin is survived by his wife Margot, his children Stephanie, James, Daniel and Nicholas, and his grandchildren Phoebe, Maeve and Audrey. Our thoughts are with his family and all who knew him.
Photographs and captions below are shared with thanks to Honorary Fellow and alum Robin Brown.
1st Row, from left: Robin Bell with John Dauth and the late Lance Thomas; Elevenses.
2nd Row, from left: Margot, Nick Minchin, Ian Leeson and Alan Flowers in Robin Bells apartment.
3rd Row: Burgmann College residents, 1973.
