Those who had the privilege of knowing Martin Bates will at once associate his name with Russia and its language, people, history and culture.
Born in Waterford in 1926, he was educated at St Kieran's, Kilkenny, where his father served as an Army officer. Martin himself joined the Army, and with some fellow officers was sent on a residential study course in Russian, which began his involvement with that country.
Held in Collon, Co Louth, the course was conducted by Major Nicholas Couriss - an officer of the Imperial Army - and his wife Kseniya. The course culminated in an examination held by the British War Office, as a result of which the Army built up a corps of interpreters.
By coincidence, UCD had, about that time, decided to add Russian to the list of language options in its science faculty, and Martin Bates was engaged to give the lectures, which began in 1957. In the following academic year he gave his first lesson in Russian to an adult education class in Earlsfort Terrace. Forty years later he concluded his final extra-mural course in Belfield.
Martin's preparation of his lectures was characterised by thoroughness, his delivery by enthusiasm, helpfulness, and good-humoured pragmatism. The adult education classes were joined by people from various walks in life, were a pleasure to attend, and for those who persisted could be the basis of a lasting interest. In many cases Martin's pupils became his friends for life.
In addition to Army work, Martin's skills in translation and interpreting were applied in other spheres, and were much valued: he helped many delegations visiting this country over the years. He acquired an external degree in Russian from the University of London, and was a member of the Irish Slavists Association.
Martin's Army career ended in 1984, when he retired with the rank of lieutenant-colonel. Apart from stints in Cyprus and a tour of the Lebanon, most of his service was in Dublin.
Aside from Russian, Martin took a keen interest in modern Irish history. He was also deeply knowledgeable about music, and was a member of the Bohemians Musical Society. However, Russia and its language were his primary interest.
It was a pleasure to be a member of a group which he led to visit Moscow and (as it then was) Leningrad in 1981. This wonderful trip was Martin's brainchild, and his careful planning, organising ability and energetic leadership ensured that it was a truly rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Despite the travel restrictions which applied in the Soviet Union at that time, the trip included visits to Kiev, Zagorsk and Novgorod. The introduction to Russia and its history, culture and people left a very deep impression on all the group members and opened up a whole new world for them.
Martin had successfully fought a serious ailment and was recovering from it when he was stricken by an unrelated illness; he departed this life last July. He is survived by his wife Phil, his sons Tony, Kevin and Mel, his daughter Miriam, and by seven grandchildren; also by his brothers Vivian, Frank and Tino, and his sisters Marie (in religion Sr Raymond) and Noelle.
The vital enthusiasm, generosity of spirit and gregarious joie-de-vivre which reflected his kindness and humour are remembered with affection.
Tsarstvo yemu nyebyesnoye! The Kingdom of Heaven be Martin's reward!
J.C./B.A.