Death Of Well-Known Mathematician

Wanganui Chronicle, 20 December 1950, Page 3

Death Of Well-Known Mathematician

Dr. Leslie John Comrie, a New Zealander who became one of the leaders in the field of applied mathematics in Britain, died in London on Monday, aged 57. He was the fouhder and tnan. aging-director of Scientific Computing Services, Ltd., a unique organisation which introduced the use of complicated calculating machines for scientific and industrial purposes. Born in Pukekohe East, Dr. Comrie was educated at the Auckland Grammar School and Auckland University College. He obtained his doctorate at Cambridge after serving in the N.Z.E.F in the First World War and specialised in calculators and astronomical research. After teaching at two American universities, Dr. Comrie returned to Britain, entering the Nautical Almanac Office. Here he revolutionised the presentation of the almanac and mechanised all the calculations used in producing its many tables. In 1937 he started his own firm and became a private mathematical consultant. Dr. Comrie, a fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society, was recently elected a fellow of the Royal Society. He is also an honorary member of the New Zealand Astronomical Society and the Royal Society of New Zealand. Last year Dr. Comrie returned to New Zealand for a short holiday and gave a number of talks. He is survived by his wife, one son and a sister, Mrs. Cyril Smith, of Wellington.