An Ode to my Dad Gone too soon but loved forever, Memories of your life to treasure. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The early days and times of old, I only know from stories told. Youngest brother, much-loved son, A young lad full of warmth and fun. (Though not everyone was keen, A Christmas gift, some wished he’d been.) Happy days spent out with chums, Woollen pants and itchy ____. Pretending you were in a band, Family trips to Geordie-land. Working in a hardware store, But life ahead held so much more. A fateful dance at Bromsgrove Baths, Sealed the crossing of two paths. Teenage sweetheart, later wife, Soulmates for the rest of life. Golden Wedding, stood the test, Mal still says, “Simply the Best”. Bus adventures, off to Wales, Breaking down and making tales. Austin car, the first of many, Wheels on which you’d spend your pennies. Bought a flat, and made it home, Dinner parties then were thrown. Treasure hunts, you stopped the car, If only it was the right flower… Apprentice when you started out, Manager, it came about. Inspiring leader, humble too, The cleaners’ names, you always knew. Still, you had a sense of humour, Stapling trouser legs closed, is more than a rumour. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In 1980 I appear, The story I know well from here. Feeling loved, secure, and cuddled, Nursery rhymes with words all muddled. Holding on to worms that wiggle, Telling stories, getting giggles. Washing cars in waterproofs, Being propped up on roller boots. Library trips to rent LPs, Singing songs sat on your knees. Soggy tents and riding bikes, Swimming pools and flying kites. Fun weekends with families, Forest trips among the trees. Snowy fun on home-made sledges, (‘Til I got caught up in hedges.) Christmas pressies, hats and puds, Sparklers, fireworks, jacket spuds. BBQs in pouring rain, Birthdays at the zoo – again! Rollercoasters, Blackpool lights, Driving home on starry nights. Rockpools, donkeys, sea, and sand, Feeling safe holding your hand. Wanting to be just like you, The Dad I always looked up to. Silly games in local parks, Wagging tails and joyful barks. Treating Lucy as your own, Helping us to make a home. Always twinkles in your eyes, The warmest smiles and sound advice. Rock cakes, scones, and cups of tea, All this, just a flavour – of what you gifted me. I really couldn’t ask for more, I had a father I adore. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ And then a move down to the Island, A change of pace, a happy retirement. Taking in the Island scenes, Rolling hills and woodland greens, Stops for coffee, favourite places, Seaside strolls and sailing races. Relaxing at the fishing ponds, Playing cards and singing songs, Evenings out and meals with friends, Neighbour chats and fun events. Foreign cruises, caravans, Family times and happy plans. Finding ways to volunteer, Fundraising and bringing cheer. And – a highlight of your life, Time with your beloved wife. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ And though each of us, here today, Remembers you in their own way, We’d all like to say: Thank you for the love you gave, The joy you spread, and memories made. We miss you more than words can say, As we laugh and cry on these bittersweet days. All our love, and blessings too, On this next great adventure, perfect for you.

Dear John You had many guises... The man of many interests. The man of many skills. The man of many hobbies. The man of many vehicles. The man of many hats. And, a man of many special qualities, who was and is so loved. This poem is for you. From the time you wore your woolly hat And parked your bicycle next door, Put up with childish giggles When we put joke spiders on the floor. You have always been our hero Who we looked up to, a fact that has no doubt. Bringing fun and adventure When you and Mal took myself and my brother out. You really are one of a kind There is no one quite like you Who said the caring things you said And did the things only you would do. I hope you knew all the moments shared Will always mean so much Because each action was blessed With your special touch. You will be so missed dear John, You gave us so much pleasure. You will live on in our hearts Your loving memory to treasure.

Uncle John, I will always remember his warm smile and laughter in his eyes . Such a kind and gentle man. My thoughts and love to Aunty Mal and Ali who I know will have so many wonderful memories to treasure xx