MICHAEL PHILIP DUFFIELD.
30th June 1962 – 15th February 2026.
Words from David G. Mills.
‘Mike’ – I never knew him by any other name – was an active member of Hull Civil
Service Chess Club between 1981 and 1992. Born to parents, Janet and John, he
lived with them in Granville Street, Anlaby Road, Hull, up to the age of 16 years. His
first school was St. Georges Road Infants, and at age 9 years, he moved To Wold
Road School, developing an interest in scouting, railways and chess, becoming
captain of the school team. On transferring to Riley High School for Boys, Parkfield
Drive, Hull, he continued playing chess, performing on top board. During his final
year, he undertook trainspotting trips to South Wales, Reading and Bristol.
Mike developed a taste for good beer, craft whisky, rum and cider during his late
teenage years. At age 17 years, he secured employment with the Inland Revenue,
Worthing, living with a relative. One of his colleagues was singer, songwriter and
musician, Gary Numan, until a transfer back to Hull was obtained.
In 1986, Mike married Michelle and they had two children, Ryan and Katie. He
remained in the Civil Service for 20 years. Subsequent employment was as a driver
moving livestock, a driver and assistant manager at an agricultural chemical
company, a barman/delivery man at Chequers Micro Pub, Beverley and a
prescription delivery man for Boots the Chemist. For five years he undertook
voluntary work at the Caring for Cats shop, Beverley.
Mike met Nicola and they married in September 1999. Ryan and Katie spent
weekends with their dad and step mum. They enjoyed trips together to Blackpool,
Matlock and Disneyland, Paris. Mike also visited Prague and Peru with Ryan.
The years of voluntary work illustrated Mike’s love of animals. He visited Mauritius
when aged 50, was a keen cook, and had musical interests ranging from Simon and
Garfunkel, Dire Straits and the Eagles to André Rieu. Other pursuits included
photography, following Hull City A.F.C. and Hull Kingston Rovers and running – often
raising money for charity and being a leader for Fitmums and Friends. He especially
appreciated time with his family. In late 2025 he bought a large number of bulbs for
planting by family members.
I recall Mike as a keen, friendly, reliable and enthusiastic member of Hull Civil
Service Chess Club who played for both the ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams. We lost contact when
he left the Civil Service, only to meet again nearly 30 years later in the Caring for
Cats shop, Beverley, when I was looking for chess books. Unfortunately, I only saw
him again on a few occasions because of his illness. I attended his funeral service
and maintain contact with Nicola via our yoga classes. R.I.P. good friend.
