The chess world has lost a gem.  Long time Kingston Chess player Jim Cairns has died at the age of 87.  As recently as three weeks ago he was still playing OTB at the Kingston Chess Club (Ontario, Canada).  After surgery he picked up an infection from which never recovered.  He has played postal chess against most players in Canada, and against many internationally.  His sense of humour, willingness to share the joy of the game with younger players and love of the game will be missed.

Peter Sibbald