Colin Philip Knight

Those we love, can never be, more than a thought apart, for as long as there is memory, they'll live forever in our hearts ...

A Life of Purpose, Curiosity, Humour and Heart

With great sadness we share the news that Colin Knight — husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor and friend — passed away peacefully on Monday 13th July, at the age of 84.

A pioneer of the computing age, a devoted family man, petrolhead, and a natural storyteller, Colin lived a life defined by service, innovation, generosity and an unwavering love for those closest to him. From his early years in the Royal Air Force to a global career at the leading edge of technology, and through his cherished charitable work giving children with life-limiting illnesses a voice, he spent his life proving that technology's true purpose is to improve the lives of others.  

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 65 years, Pauline, his children Andrea and Paul, his grandsons Owen and Oscar, and a wide circle of family and friends whose lives he enriched with his warmth, humour and kindness.  The passing of Colin leaves a space that cannot be filled. Yet the memories, lessons, and moments shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered..

A childhood of character and courage
Colin’s early years were shaped by strong family bonds, resourcefulness and a sense of humour that never left him. Even as a boy he was curious, enterprising and just a little mischievous — escaping his bedroom to sit on the doorstep of the family dairy, selling hot cross buns from a hand-cart on his father's milk round, and cycling out to Heathrow to learn every aircraft by the shape of its wings. Those early years gave him two things that stayed with him for life: a fascination with technology, and the gift of a good story. His relationship with his younger brother, Graham, and his cousins, especially Philip, Moira & Patrick Connolly, were ones of deep affection and lifelong connection. Their adventures — from coal bunkers to apple orchards to rope swings — forged a bond that endured across counties, continents and decades. Colin’s childhood stories became family folklore — told and retold with his signature sparkle. 

A life of service: The Royal Air Force
At just 15, Colin left home to join the Royal Air Force as a Boy Apprentice. It was here he discovered the discipline, teamwork and technical brilliance that would define his career. He trained in airborne weapons systems, worked on V Bombers, mastered the intricacies of ejection seats and nuclear readiness, and served in Germany during the height of Cold War tensions.
His RAF years were formative. He built lifelong friendships, developed a fierce commitment to quality and precision, and came to believe deeply in continuously learning. Above all, it was here that he learned the kind of leadership he would carry for the rest of his life — grounded in humour, humility and hard work, and generously passing on his time, skills and support to others.

A pioneering career in technology
Leaving the RAF in 1968, Colin entered the emerging world of computing — and never looked back. He rose to Senior Leadership across companies including British Computers Limited, APT Electronics, City Business Products (CBP), BT Syntegra, Genie Internet, IPC Europe and beyond, he became a respected leader in global financial trading systems, telecommunications, and early digital innovation.

Colin was a genuine pioneer of the computing age. From the earliest office computers to the world's first digital trading systems, he spent his career at the leading edge of technology — working across Europe & the Middle East, Asia and the United States with roles that took him around the globe from London to Moscow, Tokyo, Hong Kong, New York amongst others. His work always shared the same hallmarks: a legendary work ethic, uncompromising standards, an obsession with quality, a competitive spirit ("second sucks," as he liked to say), and a rare talent for inspiring others. He built teams that worked hard, cared for one another, and had fun doing it.  Colin’s passion for technology was never about machines — it was about people. He believed deeply in the power of innovation to improve lives, and he spent decades proving it.

A legacy of charity, fellowship and impact
Beyond his career, Colin gave generously of himself. He was made a Freeman of the City of London in 1989 and served as Master of the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists in 2006. He was especially proud of his work with the charity Lifelites, transforming the lives of children with life-limiting conditions. Helping to put assistive technology into children's hospices across the UK and beyond - giving seriously ill children a voice, an ability to continue to learn and grow whilst receiving critical treatment and providing connection and precious moments together with their families. One of his most cherished memories was witnessing a child speak to their parents for the first time using eye gaze technology. For Colin, this was technology at its very best: making the stars align to improve the lives of others. Moments like these fuelled his lifelong commitment to service.

A devoted husband, father and grandfather
It was in the summer of 1958, at a company social, that he met Pauline Beevor — a meeting that famously began with a knocked-over drink and an ill-advised "sorry ducks." They married in 1961, began married life in a caravan on a Wiltshire farm, and shared 65 years together. Colin’s devotion to Pauline, through every joy and every challenge, was the constant thread of Colin's life.
After thirteen years of hoping, Colin and Pauline were overjoyed to welcome their daughter, Andrea, in 1975, and their son, Paul, in 1979. Being their dad was the role Colin was proudest of. He filled their childhoods with weekend adventures in the family campervan, "Bertha," enabled barcode "shops" in the kitchen at home before the supermarkets had even heard of such technology, endured a menagerie of rescued animals, numerous motorbike restorations with Paul, and countless family holidays in Cornwall and France. He championed his children fiercely, determined they should have every opportunity — and he took great pride in watching them both build careers in technology, following, in their own way, in his footsteps.

A man of humour, heart and horsepower
He was, unapologetically, a petrolhead — from his beloved Aston Martin to a succession of motorbikes and motorhomes — and a man who never quite lost his boyish delight in anything with wheels or a good gadget. He was a great ten-pin bowler, a bit of a joker, a devoted "paw-parent" and someone who could hold a room with a tale that meandered gloriously towards its punchline – most of which were allegedly true stories?! He lived with enthusiasm, curiosity and a competitive spirit, yet he was also gentle, thoughtful, generous and deeply kind.

A life fully lived
In his final years, Colin faced a diagnosis of Lewy Bodies Dementia with characteristic courage, humour and grace.  He always lived with purpose, generosity and joy. His legacy is one of service, innovation, laughter and love — and it will endure in the many lives he enriched.

"One's work is always to serve a higher purpose, to improve the lives of others." — Colin's own words, and a life truly lived by them.

He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.

Gallery

Memory wall

July 29, 2026

1

Colin was inspirational, full of enthusiasm, and bought old school dignity to doing business. He was a true gentleman, liked and respected by all who knew him. He set the bar very high.

Alex Williamson

July 28, 2026

1

I had the pleasure of working at CBP with Colin for many years, always happy to help if there was a customer issue. Such a dedicated hard working man with a great sense of humour and passion for life. My best memory was he wrote and delivered my leaving speech and managed to make me laugh, hide my face and cry all in the same speech. A little while later he was at my new workplace for a business meeting , he asked his hosts if they would take him to see me, just to say hello and check I was doing ok.
My sincere condolences to all his family, friends and those who knew him. RIP Colin

Samia Jackson

July 28, 2026

1

I first met Colin nearly 40 years ago when Andrea and I became friends at school. I have so many happy memories of him in particular the camper van trips and singing Pavarotti with Pip! He was such a gorgeous soul and his warmth, kindness, humour and smile always shone bright.

My sincere condolences to all his family and friends. He will be deeply missed, but his love and memories and will remain in your hearts forever. xxx

Ruth Robertson

July 28, 2026

2

Andrea and family, my sincere condolences at the loss of Colin. I didn't know Colin personally, but Andrea talked about him with such love and respect always that I got a sense of what a lovely man he was and a great father. Thinking of you all. May Colin rest in peace.

Anna Pringle

July 27, 2026

1

I was so lucky that my tenure as the first CEO of Lifelites coincided with Colin’s own year as Master of the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists. He worked ceaselessly to help me forge the networks we needed to get our fundraising offer off the ground. Such a fun character, my earliest memories of him include him dressing up as Farther Christmas to entertain the children at the Company’s Christmas service at St Bart’s. Another really memorable occasion was travelling together to celebrate a new Lifelites package at a children’s hospice with Colin regaling me with stories of his fascinating career. His enthusiasm for our work was ceaseless and I remember his delight when we first introduced video cameras to our offer and hearing first-hand the difference that would make for the families to “capture the last laugh”. When we introduced Eyegaze, he was the most enthusiast proponent of the possibilities it presented for parents to hear their children “speak” for the first time. It was due to Colin’s early pioneering work that Lifelites existed at all, and, for me, having a partner among the trustees who shared my passion for harnessing the power of technology to open up opportunities for these children, was exactly what we needed to move the charity forward. It is because of Colin’s energy and enthusiasm that – through Lifelites special technologies- so many hundreds of thousands of children with short lives have been able to join in with the world around them. Thank you for all your help and support Colin, and I hope you enjoy your well-deserved rest now.

Simone Enefer-Doy

July 26, 2026

1

I first met Colin 30 years ago when Andrea and I became friends. I was welcomed with open arms, a wide smile and a twinkle in his eyes. This is how I will always remember Colin, he embraced life and anyone that entered into his or his families. He was a man of honour, he loved to travel and helping and supporting others. Colin always had a story to tell and a fantastic sense of humour.

My sincere condolences go to all of his family and friends who have lost this amazing soul, he will always be in your hearts and memories forever and there will be moments that remind you of him each and everyday that will bring back a memory and make you smile xxx

Joanne Fielding

July 22, 2026

2

I had the great pleasure of working for Colin at IPC in the early 2000s and was fortunate to know someone who was so supportive, encouraging and kind. Those qualities weren't reserved for a select few—he treated everyone with the same warmth and respect, regardless of their role or title.

Colin had a real passion for technology and was a leading light in the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists (WCIT). I was lucky enough to attend many events with him during his year as Master, and we shared some wonderful memories and a great deal of laughter.

I feel incredibly privileged to have called Colin a friend. He will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace Colin. x

Sally Coleman

July 20, 2026

1

We are so sad to hear the news of Colin’s passing and we send our deepest sympathies to Pauline, Andrea, Paul and the rest of the family.
Andrea and I were teenage best friends so I mostly got to see Colin as Andrea’s Dad! And what a great dad he was too! He took us on lots of camping adventures, organized our first holiday away from home- just Andrea and I, and then of course funded Andrea’s first VW that took us on many adventures!
I will always remember Colin with a smile on his face and thinking of him puts a smile on my face too! As I’ve gone back to Wokingham I’ve always popped round to visit Colin and Pauline and we’ve kept a special bond over all these years. I’m so happy that my mum and I got to enjoy a fish and chip supper with Colin fairly recently.
I will miss him but am so thankful to have known him and for our families to have been close over all these years. Hope your up there enjoying a glass of red with Tony! Cheers Colin, Rest In Peace and thank you!

Rebecca Revilla

July 20, 2026

1

I had the privilege of meeting and working for Colin in 1990 when I joined CBP which became Syntegra and then BT. He was in a senior position but always approachable and extremely likeable. He was a real innovator and he will be remembered with fondness by so many. Condolences to his family x

Dawn Rolph

July 20, 2026

1

I was very fortunate to know Colin for only a few years. His kindness and generosity will always stay with me. He will be deeply missed

Peter George

July 20, 2026

1

I shall miss Colin for so many reasons.

His support for everything we did at WCIT, especially Lifelites.
His passion for ridiculously fast cars.
As a fellow Wokingham-dweller, our regular Friday nights in the Three Frogs, putting the world to rights and always having one more pint than planned before venturing out for fish and chips.
His pride in getting the WCIT Past Master plaque engraved every year.
And above all, his friendship for the past 20 years.

Stefan Fafinski

July 19, 2026

1

I am deeply sad to hear of Colin’s passing my sincere condolences to his family and friends. I worked with Colin at IPC he was the best Leader I have ever worked for. Colin always had an open door policy to all his staff he was a great mentor, kind and caring. Colin had a great sense of humour and made everyday at work a pleasure. A true gentleman. Rest in peace Colin.

Stephanie Butler

July 17, 2026

1

I had the privilege and honor of working for Colin and knowing him for a long time. He was a great leader, a great mentor, a role he enjoyed and a great friend. I am very sorry to hear this. Andrea and Paul. please accept my sincere condolences.

Michael Marucci

July 17, 2026

2

Having known Colin for a number of years, I can truly say it was an absolute pleasure to have known him. Even though we didn’t work together directly, his kindness, patience, and incredible passion for the tech industry were always so clear to see. Colin was someone who constantly went the extra mile, always dedicating his time to support others in their growth. He has left a profound impact on so many lives and will be truly, deeply missed. Rest easy, Colin Xx

Jacqui garrad

July 16, 2026

2

Colin was one of our Trustees at AbilityNet and I remember him for his passion, kindness and humility. Such a lovely person. Sorry for your loss

Mairead Comerford

July 16, 2026

2

I never had the privilege of meeting Colin but I know his reputation and know that his influence helped to shape the wonderful Lifelites charity. He has been referred to by those that worked with him during the early years of Lifelites as a 'giant', testament to his passion for technology and it's incredible power to tear down barriers and unlock potential in people no matter what challenges they face.

Those of us involved at Lifelites are indebted to Colin and his passion, it's hard to imagine we would be where we are today without him.

Thoughts with family and friends from all of us at Lifelites.

Rob Lightfoot

July 16, 2026

3

Colin was my first mentor. At the start of my career in Technology, navigating my way through corporate life. He taught me so much with kindness and wisdom.

I now teach and love to tell stories myself thanks to him.

Many of the things he taught me are passed onto my students, keeping his legacy going through future generations like a permanent footprint in the snow…

I wouldn’t be the person I am today had it not been for him.

Thank you Colin xx

Adele King

July 16, 2026

1

I was fortunate to share 20 years of Colin’s life in Freemasonry together in Cito Lodge. He was a very good man and a wonderful friend. I will miss him very much.

Brian King

July 16, 2026

2

Colin took me on as a young engineer at APT in Reading, and later as a more experienced Engineer at BT CBP. I am very pleased that he was not only my boss, but my friend - he used to let me drive his cars and ride his motorbikes way back in the late 80s and early 90s and share stories - funny, interesting and motivational, always with a smile on his face. He was passionate about computing, technology and manufacturing and was always ready to give something a shot if it looked like a step forward. A truly great man who helped change my life as well as the lives of many others.

John Tomlinson

July 16, 2026

2

Serving in a minor role in Colin's Lifelites project in our Livery company (WCIT) I saw his unique combination of steely determination and quiet modesty. Colin's energy and passion in this gave seriously ill children a voice and an opportunity, however brief, to continue with aspects of normal life . His leadership here set the standards and framework for many of the WCIT's charitable activities today.
A true gentleman with a mischievous sense of humour his was indeed a life well lived.

Campbell McGarvie

July 16, 2026

1

Colin was a mentor to me on numerous occasions over the last 25 years, first through the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists and later within CITO Lodge. I owe him more than I ever properly told him.

He shared his wisdom generously, but more importantly, he instilled in me the belief that knowledge, success and influence bring with them an obligation to do good. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my life and continues to shape the decisions I make and the causes I support.

Colin led through encouragement, kindness and example. He saw potential in people, gave them confidence and quietly challenged them to become better versions of themselves. I feel enormously privileged to have known him, to have learned from him and to have called him my friend.

His influence will continue through the many people whose lives he changed, including mine. Thank you, Colin. You will be deeply missed, but the good you inspired in others will live on.

Leigh Harrison

July 16, 2026

4

Colin taught me the imperative and rewards of using our business skills for charitable and social impact. He led by example, putting huge energy into his passion causes, not least Lifelites. He was one of life's truly inspirational figures. He also paved the way for me and many others into the IT Livery Company (WCIT), an institution which he loved and which has benefited greatly from his leadership and legacy. Colin, RIP.

Gary Moore

July 16, 2026

2

A true gentleman and something of a mentor to all he came into contact with. I remember fondly sharing car journeys into London and back for over 2 years and how much advice and guidance he gave me during those journeys.

And most fondly of all I remember hearing the roar of his Aston Martin as he arrived at my house to take each of my 5 sons out for a spin one after the other.

Rest in peace Colin.

Graeme Bower

Service

Donate