Inspirational teacher Dave dies aged 76

Dave Carlile spent his whole career at Fisher More RC High School, Colne.

He would have celebrated his 77th birthday yesterday. Past and present-day pupils were expected to fill the congretation at Sacred Heart Church for his funeral service yesterday when children from the school choir sang in his memory.

Health problems led Mr Carlile to retire early from his teaching post but he continued to take an active interest in the school he loved by joining the governing body, and later became its chairman.

He also found time to help out at other Pendle schools, particularly at West Craven, and to take care of his grandchildren.

His services to education were recognised by Pope John Paul II, who awarded him the Bene Marente medal.

Mr Carlile was brought up in Blackpool and trained as a teacher in Manchester, where he met his wife and fellow teacher, Barbara.

They had been married 52 years and lived in Nelson before moving to Sough.

He specialised in science, becoming head of science and then head of Year. After furthering his own studies with a degree in education he became senior teacher in charge of discipline.

As a young man Mr Carlile played rugby and did weight-lifting, and he shared his skills with youngsters at the KSC youth club in Nelson. He also devoted time to the Handicapped Childrens’ Pilgrimage Trust and accompanied youngsters on trips to Lourdes.

In later years he was an active member of the Catenians, and he also developed an interest in cars and enjoyed horse racing.

Mr Carlile’s health deteriorated when a series of mini strokes left him with vascular dementia.

He spent his last seven happy and peaceful years being cared for at Belgarth Nursing Home in Barrowford.

Mr Carlile leaves his wife, two sons and three grand-daughters.

The family has asked for donations in lieu of flowers to be given to the Alzheimer’s Society or Kids Aid Tanzania, a mission which is organised by a family relative caring for orphans and children.