Mike Pert passed away suddenly on November 11th 2025. He was much loved by his family and will greatly be missed by all who knew him. Our goal is to raise awareness of Automated External Defibrillators in the community.

Mike loved sailing—both leisurely on his yacht and competitively in his Wayfarer—with his wife, Rani. They were exceptionally talented sailors, achieving many local victories and finishing 11th in the Wayfarer World Championships in Canada in 1995.

Mike had many other hobbies, including golf, cycling, bridge, and following his beloved Ipswich Town Football Club. Although he didn’t play chess competitively, he was a very capable player and taught the game to his sons Nick (Grandmaster) and Richard (International Master) who are now two of the best players in the country.

Nothing gave him greater pleasure than spending time with his family. Nina, Max, Clodagh and Sofia all enjoyed playing chess against their Grandpa. Nina and Max both went on to win British Championship Titles within their age category. Mike was a regular presence on the chess scene when Nick and Richard were young, and in more recent years he closely followed his children’s and grandchildren’s progress online. He also helped at several junior chess events run by his sons.

In his memory Rani, Richard and Nick will, in the future, be hosting a fun tournament in his honour. All donations will go towards the event. Our goal is to raise awareness of Automated External Defibrillators in the community.

Funeral service and celebration of his life to be held at St.Augustine's Church, Bucklesham Road, Ipswich, IP3 8TH. Friday 19th Dec 11am.