Roger Squires Obituary and Death
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jun 11, 2023
Who was Roger Squires?
Roger Squires hailed from the enchanting lands of Tettenhall in Wolverhampton, England. Born on the 22nd of February in 1932, this extraordinary soul graced the world with his ethereal talent until the fateful month of June in 2023, when he ascended to the celestial crossword realm.
Roger Squires, a maestro of the puzzling arts, resided in the quaint haven of Ironbridge, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Shropshire. His name echoed through the annals of crosswords, revered and cherished by enthusiasts across the globe. A title befitting his unparalleled mastery was bestowed upon him, as he earned the distinction of being the most prolific compiler in the entirety of human history.
Under the veil of a cryptic alias, he wove intricate tapestries of words in the prestigious domains of puzzle-solving. As the mythical Rufus, he graced the illustrious pages of The Guardian, captivating readers with his enigmatic creations. In the realm of financial wisdom, he adopted the persona of Dante, captivating the minds of intellectuals in The Financial Times.
Yet, it was on the sacred day of beginnings, every Monday, that Roger Squires left an indelible mark on the hallowed grounds of The Daily Telegraph. With each passing week, his craft unfolded like a sonnet of linguistic brilliance, beckoning crossword devotees to embark on a journey of riddles and revelations.
Roger Squires Obituary
The world of crosswords was plunged into a somber labyrinth of mystery and loss when the news of Roger Squires' passing emerged. In a cryptic twist befitting his enigmatic craft, the Guardian's prize crossword, masterfully crafted by his fellow wordsmith 'Paul,' carried the weighty announcement on the 10th of June in 2023. Within the intricate web of clues lay hidden the poignant revelation, though scant in details and lacking a definitive date. It was a poignant homage, reminiscent of the late Araucaria's poignant farewell, where the art of puzzle-making became a vessel for personal revelations.
Beyond the realm of words, Roger Squires was a man of diverse passions. A stalwart athlete, he proudly donned the colors of the Royal Navy and Fleet Air Arm, representing them with valor and skill in the fields of football and cricket. His dedication and love for these sports were matched only by his fervor for sharing his expertise. A qualified Football Association Coach and Referee, he imparted his wisdom, nurturing the talent of future generations.
Roger Squires Death
Roger Squires passed away in June 2023. As the news of his departure spread, the echoes of his crosswords intertwined with the memories of his sporting triumphs. A profound sense of loss filled the hearts of those who had crossed paths with this remarkable soul. Roger Squires' legacy extends far beyond the realms of puzzle grids and athletic fields. He was a man whose passion, talent, and unwavering spirit touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him.
Though the details of his final journey remain shrouded in the enigma he so adored, one thing is certain: Roger Squires' presence will forever be etched within the intricate tapestry of crosswords and sportsmanship. As the puzzle-loving community mourns the loss of a luminary, his legacy will continue to inspire, guiding aspiring solvers and athletes alike towards the pursuit of excellence.
Roger Squires Career
Early Career and Pseudonyms
In the realm of cryptic conundrums, one name shines brightly—the esteemed Roger Squires. With a career spanning several prestigious publications, his talent captivated crossword enthusiasts worldwide. From his beginnings in 1981 with The Guardian, The Times Educational Supplement, The Glasgow Herald, and Financial Times, to his role as the crossword editor for the Birmingham Post for an impressive 22 years, Squires left an indelible mark on the world of puzzles. His expertise extended to The Independent and the Daily Telegraph, while his puzzle prowess also graced the pages of The Sun, The Times, and the Times Educational Supplement. Under the cloak of pseudonyms like Rufus, Dante, Icarus, Hodge, and Bower, Squires masterfully crafted crosswords that challenged and delighted solvers.
Setting World Records
Roger Squires' impact on the crossword world was not confined to his remarkable career trajectory. In 1990, he led the Great Britain crossword team in the International Crossword Marathon in Bjelovar, Yugoslavia, showcasing his leadership and puzzle-solving skills on an international stage. The Guinness World Records recognized his unparalleled contributions, crowning him "The World's Most Prolific Crossword Compiler." From 1978 until 2002, his name graced the hallowed pages of the Guinness Book of Records, and the 2008 print edition included an update until December 2005. His puzzles reached far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom, delighting solvers in 32 countries across the globe.
A Legacy of Innovation and Achievement
Squires' legacy is one of boundless creativity and record-breaking feats. In 2007, a milestone was reached as his two millionth clue was published in the Daily Telegraph—a testament to his unwavering dedication. The clue itself, "Two girls, one on each knee (7)," exemplified the clever wordplay that made his puzzles so revered. He pushed the boundaries of puzzle design, setting a Guinness Record for the Longest Published Crossword—a colossal eight feet in length. Although a full 24-foot puzzle eluded publication, the breadth of his vision was undeniable.
Unforgettable Contributions and Enduring Influence
Roger Squires' impact extends far beyond mere numbers and accolades. He holds the distinction of being one of only four setters to have graced the ranks of all five quality newspapers—The Times, Daily Telegraph, The Guardian, The Independent, and Financial Times. His creativity knew no bounds, as evidenced by his groundbreaking creation of a three-dimensional crossword that ingeniously fit onto a Rubik's Cube. Squires also held the record for the longest word ever used in a published puzzle—an astonishing Welsh place name, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. His ingenious anagram clue brought the behemoth word to life, captivating solvers with its linguistic wizardry.
A Celebrated Milestone and a Timeless Craft
In 2013, Roger Squires celebrated an extraordinary achievement—50 years as a professional setter. Coinciding with the Crossword's First Centenary, this remarkable milestone solidified his place as a true maestro of the craft. By June 30, 2013, he had compiled a staggering 74,634 crosswords, encompassing a staggering 2.25 million clues. Such dedication and passion leave an enduring legacy, inspiring future generations of crossword enthusiasts to embrace the intricate dance of words.
Roger Squires Early Life
Roger Squires' journey from a curious mind to a celebrated crossword compiler began amidst the halls of Wolverhampton Grammar School. It was there that he honed his intellectual prowess, earning his School Certificate and laying the foundation for his future endeavors. But life had a different path in store for him.
At the tender age of 15, driven by a sense of adventure and duty, Squires embarked on a new chapter as he joined the Royal Navy as a Boy Seaman. The sea became his classroom, teaching him discipline, resilience, and the invaluable art of navigation. Little did he know that his nautical voyage would set the stage for a different kind of odyssey—one that would delight and challenge minds around the world.
As Roger Squires bid farewell to the Navy in 1963, a door swung open to a world of words, clues, and hidden meanings. That very year, he unveiled his inaugural published puzzle, gracing the pages of the Wolverhampton Express & Star. It marked the first step in a remarkable journey, igniting a passion that would become his life's calling.
The national stage beckoned, and the prestigious Radio Times became the platform for Squires' creative puzzles. The year proved to be a turning point as he secured a regular role as a compiler with the esteemed Birmingham Post. It was there that he honed his skills, crafting crosswords that challenged and entertained a captivated audience.
Squires' talents transcended boundaries, captivating not just the United Kingdom but also enthusiasts worldwide. With his reputation soaring, he ventured into the realm of syndicates, supplying puzzles for newspapers both at home and abroad. His crossword wizardry spanned continents, as his puzzles found their way into the eager hands of solvers around the globe.
Roger Squires Marital Life
In the ebb and flow of life, Roger Squires encountered a pivotal moment in 1977 when his first marriage reached a crossroads. As the tides of change swept through his life, he faced a difficult decision. Driven by an unwavering devotion to his two pre-teenage sons, he made the heartfelt choice to give up his professional acting and magic career. With a selfless spirit, he embraced the role of caregiver, choosing to work from the comfort of his home to provide the love and support his children needed.
Amidst the tender moments of familial dedication, destiny revealed another chapter in Roger Squires' life. In due course, he found love once again and embarked on a new journey with his beloved Anna. The union became a testament to the resilience of the human heart and the power of companionship to heal and uplift.
Through life's twists and turns, Squires' unwavering commitment to family illuminated the depths of his character. With each passing day, he exemplified the profound strength and unconditional love that binds families together.
As he navigated the intricate paths of parenthood and the joys of newfound love, Roger Squires continued to bring his passion for crosswords to life, crafting puzzles that would challenge and entertain generations to come. His remarkable ability to balance personal responsibilities with professional pursuits serves as a testament to his character and the values he held dear.
In the tapestry of his life, love and family were interwoven with his unwavering dedication to his craft, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and creative brilliance. Roger Squires, a man whose path was shaped by love and the pursuit of excellence, touched the hearts of those who knew him and continues to inspire others to navigate life's complexities with grace and determination.
An Inspiring Life of Roger Squires
Roger Squires' path from a Boy Seaman to a renowned crossword compiler showcases the power of passion and the beauty of unexpected twists in life. From the shores of Wolverhampton Grammar School to the vast expanse of the sea, he navigated a course that led him to the realm of words and puzzles. With each clue, he weaved a tapestry of intrigue and delight, leaving solvers yearning for more.
Through his puzzles, Squires transformed mundane grids into gateways of discovery, offering solace and intellectual stimulation to countless individuals. His unwavering dedication to the craft and his tireless pursuit of excellence paved the way for a legacy that continues to inspire both novice solvers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
The story of Roger Squires reminds us that our journeys can take unexpected turns, guiding us towards paths we never imagined. And in his case, it led him to a world of letters, riddles, and the enduring allure of crosswords—a realm where his brilliance shone brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of puzzle lovers worldwide.
Roger Squires' impact on the world of crosswords is immeasurable. His ingenuity, record-breaking feats, and unwavering commitment have cemented his name among the pantheon of puzzle masters. As solvers grapple with his clues and unravel the intricacies of his puzzles, his spirit lives on—a testament to the artistry and joy he brought to the world of words.
Roger Squires Obituary - FAQs
Roger Squires was a renowned British crossword compiler and setter, best known for his prolific career in crafting challenging and engaging puzzles.
Roger Squires held the esteemed title of "The World's Most Prolific Crossword Compiler" according to Guinness World Records. He compiled crosswords under various pseudonyms, including Rufus, Dante, Icarus, Hodge, and Bower. Squires' puzzles appeared in numerous publications, including The Guardian, The Financial Times, The Times, and The Daily Telegraph.
Roger Squires made a significant impact on the world of crosswords through his dedication, creativity, and the sheer volume of puzzles he produced. He published over 70,000 crosswords throughout his career and held the Guinness Record for the Longest Published Crossword, measuring 8 feet long.
Yes, Roger Squires received widespread recognition for his contributions. He appeared in the Guinness Book of Records from 1978 until crossword records were removed in 2002. His puzzles were enjoyed not only in the United Kingdom but also in 32 countries around the world.
Roger Squires served as an inspiration and mentor to aspiring crossword compilers. His intricate clues, clever wordplay, and meticulous construction techniques influenced and shaped the work of many who followed in his footsteps. His legacy continues to inspire and guide crossword enthusiasts and creators alike.