He studied medicine at Cambridge and later served as a medic with the paratroops in the Second World War. His first wife, also a doctor, sadly passed away shortly after I was born. I first remember visiting at "The Workhouse" - his home in the Lake District, then latterly, after he re-married, down in Hastings. He also served as patriarch at many a family event over the years, most recently his own 90th birthday celebrations two and a half years ago.
A friendly and oftentimes jovial man, he enjoyed his comforts - food, drink, holidays (albeit never travelling light). I have vivid memories of a time we were camping with him one summer in France, it's pouring with rain, but this isn't going to stop him from cooking up a delicious three-course meal on the limited kitchen facilities of our two tents.
Unfortunately, old age finally caught up - a series of strokes taking him in and out of hospital over the last year or so, the most recent attack leaving him little chance of returning home. He is survived by his second wife, three children and four grandchildren.
Rest in Peace, Grandpa.
November 11 2002, 15:47:00 UTC 18 years ago
And thanks for that very well done obituary.