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<P>It is with great sadness that I report the passing of Michael Shaffer, who
died in his sleep during the early hours of 23 March. He had been working in
Wandsworth on the moth collections the week before: his death was an unexpected
and considerable shock to his many colleagues both here and across the world.
</P>
<P>Since his retirement as a curator from the Museum, Michael had been a greatly
valued Scientific Associate, coming to the Entomology Department usually three
days each week. During this time he continued to improve the collections and act
as their custodian. He was respected internationally for his deep knowledge of
the Pyraloidea, one of the most species-rich groups of moths. His international
colleagues marked his retirement by dedicating a 200-page <EM>Festschrift</EM>
to him. </P>
<P>After his retirement researchers and curators continued to seek his advice,
often on complex taxonomic questions. Michael leaves a tremendous legacy of
knowledge residing particularly in the arrangement of the collections at this
Museum, and from which future generations will continue to benefit. Many other
collections have been materially improved by his curatorial input or through his
advice. His publications include the 710 page work on the <EM>Channel Island
Lepidoptera</EM> that appeared in print last year. He also illustrated a number
of works with skilled and detailed figures of moth morphology. </P>
<P>Many tributes to his life and achievements have been sent from far and wide,
a measure of the respect, esteem and affection in which Michael was held. </P>
<P>Last year Michael celebrated 50 years of his association with the Museum,
coincident with the publication of his book. The event was celebrated quietly
with his colleagues at Wandsworth. He is survived by his wife Monika, to whom we
extend our deep condolences.</P>
<P>The funeral will take place on Thursday 16 April, 13.20, at the Putney Vale
crematorium.</P>
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<DIV><SPAN style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: Arial"><?xml:namespace prefix = o
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class=803375715-31032009>Dr Malcolm Scoble</SPAN></o:p></SPAN></DIV>
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