Born in England, Bastow’s father was a mechanical engineer for Wallis and Stevens Ltd., manufacturers of heavy machinery, especially steam engines. He eventually became Works Director for the company and Bastow held him in high esteem reflected in an enthusiasm for steam machinery throughout his life. His mother died when he was seven and his upbringing was taken over by his mother’s sister, Mary, who moved in as housekeeper and caregiver for the young Bastow. She was aided by her sister, Joyce, and also his father’s sister, Kath. Why it took three spinster aunts to raise the young Bastow and what effect it had on his upbringing can’t be known, but he always spoke of them with the greatest affection. Bastow was justifiably a world-renowned ecologist and a scientist the University of Otago can be pleased to have been associated with. For those who were lucky to know him on a personal level, their memories will be a reminder of a great personality, full of fun and mischief and an astute critic who kept us forever on our guard against poor thinking.