Lawyer- diplomat whose courtesy and patience won many hearts

Thirteen years have lapsed since the passing away of R. C. A. Vandergert. The lawyerdiplomat joined the Sri Lanka Foreign Service in 1961. He first functioned as Assistant Secretary, Deputy Director and Director in various divisions in the Ministry of Defence and External Affairs, and also in different capacities in Sri Lanka missions abroad.

I came into contact with him in the latter part of the ’70s when he was the Legal Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It was a pleasure to have worked under him, as he was a gentleman par excellence. He held two high diplomatic appointments as our High Commissioner to Canada, and later as Ambassador to China. Also, he held high positions in the

Ministry of Foreign Affairs such as Director, United Nations Division, Director General Political Affairs and later as Secretary to the Foreign Affairs Ministry. He was comfortable and relaxed even in problematic situations. His courtesy, patience and friendliness won the hearts of all who worked with him. He never spoke in an aggressive tone, or used harsh language. His face was always lit with smiles.

Rodney Vandergert was a Christian who practised what he preached. His high degree of honesty plus integrity of character with devotion to duty and simplicity in no small measure earned the respect of all who came into contact with him.

May he rest in peace.