From Old Pangbournians

David F.W. Bradley

Date: May 14, 2008 | By admin | Category: Obituaries

David F.W. Bradley (1965–1970) passed away on May 14, 2008, at the age of 56, following a brief illness.

A committed member of the Pangbournian community, David served as Chairman of the Old Pangbournian Society from 1984 to 1986 and was a Trustee for 12 years. He joined the Nautical College Pangbourne in 1965, starting in Port Jackson Division before moving to Macquarie. During his time at the College, he rowed in the 1st VIII and played rugby for the 1st XV.

After leaving Pangbourne, David briefly joined the Royal Marines before transitioning to the Merchant Navy. He gained experience with several shipping companies before joining The Clan Line, undertaking voyages to and from South Africa.

Upon leaving the sea, he embarked on a successful career in shipbroking with Vogt and Maguire. He became a member of the Baltic Exchange in 1977 and joined its staff in 1998. At the Baltic, he played a key role in developing and implementing major improvements to freight market indices and assessments, which now form the foundation of the global freight derivatives markets.

Just two days after his passing, the Baltic Exchange published an obituary in his honor. It concluded with a tribute from the Chief Executive, Jeremy Penn:

“He was the perfect work companion – funny, engaged, part of the team and completely serious about what we do. We have lost a great friend.”

Email  8th October 2013

We have just attended Union-Castle Reunion @ Southampton; where very sadly we learned of David Bradley’s death some 8 or 9 years ago, but no other details. He was a deck officer 3rd mate on the Pendennis Castle in 1974-5. When I was the nursing sister there.

David was a good friend & I’d like to know any details etc. I would like to send his family our sincere condolences.

Thank you,

Deborah Wadham (nee White)

On the bridge of Pendennis Castle