Tributes paid to Emeritus Professor Peter Excell

Tributes have been paid to a distinguished Emeritus Professor of Wrexham Glyndwr University who has passed away after a short illness.

Professor Emeritus Peter Excell had served at the university for many years in both a number of academic roles and leadership roles – including that of Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

He was an eager promoter of the work of colleagues, and a loyal attendee of Glyndwr graduation ceremonies.

Professor Maria Hinfelaar, Vice-Chancellor said: “Peter made a significant contribution to the university both  in his capacity as an academic and as a former Deputy Vice Chancellor.

“Following his retirement, in his role as Emeritus Professor, Peter was a great ambassador for Glyndwr and,  until very recently, he represented the university at conferences, engaged with colleagues and attended university events  whenever he could.

“He could meet with leading politicians – such as the President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, who he met in 2015, with key international academics and businesspeople, and with researchers just starting out in their field – yet treat them all equally, fairly - and with the keen interest he brought to everything he did.

“Peter could always be relied upon to submit high profile nominations for Honorary Fellows, with the university’s Fellowships over the years owing a great deal to his work.

“Many of our staff, students and Governors met Professor Excell over the years at graduation ceremonies and other events.

“He was a prolific author and researcher and, earlier this year, was awarded a Fellowship of the Learned Society of Wales, as well as a Higher Doctorate from the University of Chester.”

Professor Excell worked on a range of topics linked to electronics, communications and computing, among others, and during a research career spanning decades, he built a network of colleagues around the world – many of whom had begun their work under his guidance.

Both current and former Glyndwr academics and professional staff have already paid tribute to Professor Excell for his leadership, his academic support and his friendship. He is survived by his wife, Dianne, and children Matthew and Charlotte.

Professor Maria Hinfelaar added:  “Peter will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with Dianne and their family.”