Dad was quite a character. He was born at Burnetts Lane, West End on 8th November, 1937. He was the youngest of five children, having two brothers and two sisters. The family moved to MacNaughton Road and he grew up in the Bitterne Park area. He attended Bitterne Park Schools. Dad would often tell us stories of his school days: playing truant, spending days down by the River Itchen, having adventures, dangerous Morrie in the making! Dad never really ogrew up because he did similar things with his grandsons when they were small. Dad loved sport particularly cricket and football. He played for his school teams and they were local champions on a number of occasions. Dad was conscripted to the RAF and his love of the service continued throughout his life. One of his greatest loves was RAF Duxford which he visited on many occasions along with anyone else he could coax into joining him. He married our Mum (Muriel) at the tender age of 19 with Mum being only 16. They lived in Woolston and had three children: Julie, Kerry and Steven. Life was very hard for such a young couple and they eventually went their separate ways. Dad later married Celia and in 2021 they celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Dad spent his early working life as a builder in his brother Albie’s company. For many years he was a long distance lorry driver for Debenhams. Following on from this he drove for TNT where he had many good friends. He became a grandfather in September 1980 with the arrival of his first granddaughter Nina. I (Kerry) remember the joy on his face as he held my beautiful baby in his arms. More grandchildren came along: Steven, Ashley, Jamie and a surprise in 2004 with the arrival of Alexandra. Dad was over the moon at being asked to walk Nina down the aisle at her wedding in 2009 - such a proud Grandad. He became a great grandad in 2011 with the arrival of Mischa (grandson Steven)followed by Henry (granddaughter Nina)and Mason (grandson Steven). He really was a fun Grandad. Always willing to tag along on perhaps the not so suitable for Grandad rides at theme parks, joining in the kids games and climbing trees even at the age of 80! Giving poor Celia and the Mums and Dads moments of sheer terror! He loved classical, big band and military music, opera (Carmen was his favourite) and ballet. A particular favourite was Andre Rieu. Dad had a great knowledge of history with an intense passion for battles of past wars. He loved visiting airfields and military museums as well as other historical sites. We will always remember his great sense of humour. He was definitely a “wind up” merchant! He will be missed by all who knew him - rest in peace.