Francis Colin Schwerdt was born in Hertfordshire and educated at Winchester College before receiving his medical training at Oxford where he qualified in 1952. After his national service as regimental medical officer to the 3rd Royal Hussars he embarked on his chosen specialty in ophthalmic surgery at Moorfields Hospital. In 1962 he was appointed as a consultant at Exeter where he was much respected as a most conscientious clinician and teacher. His standard of care for his patients was an example to be followed and he developed the art of ophthalmology by integrating his findings to all aspects of medicine. He had a love of music and family life. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.