Ian Hotchkiss
xx xx, xxxx - xx xx, xxxx
Dr Ian Hotchkiss, 73, passed away on August 19 2025 from cancer. Born in the Isle of Man on September 11 1951, he lived in Westwoodside from 1980, known to many as a capable teacher and a stalwart & caring man. His many accomplishments include a PhD in fluorine chemistry, and a long career in teaching, beginning when he was invited to help build Saudi Arabia's first university, King Faisal University, and then continuing at Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School and then Leeds Grammar School. His expertise earned him the roles of Head of Chemistry, Head of Science, AQA Chief Examiner for Chemistry A-Levels, Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and Deputy Headmaster. He will be remembered as a caring father, a superb chemist, a man of robust morals, wide travels, great humour, and tremendous courage. Not a day went by that he did not work for the benefit of others, especially his loving wife Jacqueline Hotchkiss for whom he cared throughout her long illness until her death in May 2024. Thousands of men & women were set onto a better path having passed through his classroom, or mentored by him. He will be greatly missed.
Condoleances
Charles Colbourn
Dr Hotchkiss was my chemistry teacher at QEGs in the early 1980s. Even now he stands out in my memory for his calm measured manner, gentleness and patience.
Ruth Boddy
I was fortunate to join Ian's chemistry department at GASL in 2008. I will be forever grateful for his wise words, great leadership and unfaltering support. I remember fondly dealing with a parent who wished to complain because Ian had made the decision to retire and her daughter would, therefore, not have him as her teacher at A level! He touched the lives of so many young people and professionals alike. To the family, I am so very sorry for your loss; you are very much in my thoughts.
Rob Wilson
This news has really saddened me Dr Hotchkiss was a valued customer of mine and I would also say friend for over 15 years or so and every time I visited his home to carry out work it was like visiting a family friend with his stories about his past trips which inspired me to also travel. I also one time took my daughter along on a inset day and she had a great experience doing jigsaws with his wife Jaqueline RIP Ian
Tom Rogerson
I very much enjoyed working with Ian at GSAL from 2006 until his retirement. Calm, sensible and a good sense of humour. Sincere condolences to all Ian's family.
Nick Porteus
So sorry to hear of the passing of Ian. He was a great support and inspiration to me during my formative years at LGS, and for that I will always be grateful. My thoughts and prayers go out to Jeff, David and all the family. He made a big difference to many lives and will be greatly missed I’m sure.