John Walls, professor of nephrology at the University of Leicester and consultant at Leicester General Hospital, was a nationally and internationally regarded nephrologist. He was interested in dialysis at a time when there were very few units in the UK. He started dialysis in Newcastle, where he spent most of his time as a postgraduate, and with this knowledge established one of the largest dialysis units in the country at Leicester.
Apart from his enormous industry in setting up an excellent unit, he had the ability to stimulate, inspire and nurture many young renal physicians, many of whom now hold senior positions in the UK and elsewhere. He published over 180 original papers and his research findings were presented at national and international meetings where he was well known.
He was president of the Renal Association between 1995 and 1998. The National Kidney Federation in America presented him with an international distinction medal for services to renal medicine in 1998. This is a very rare honour for a non-American.
In addition to his renal interests he was postgraduate, as well as undergraduate, dean in Leicester for a number of years and was an active member of the College, as an examiner and censor. More recently he had been elected vice-president. Sadly, he died before he could take up this prestigious post.
John’s interests were numerous and varied, and included squash and fly fishing. He had a passionate interest in rugby, supporting the Leicester Tigers. He had great integrity and his direct honest manner and ability to get things done was greatly admired by his patients and colleagues alike.
He was a good friend and colleague to many people and will be sadly missed. He is survived by his wife Adele, and two sons.
