I just wanted to start by saying thank you to everyone for being here today to pay their respects and celebrate the life of our Grandad. When I heard he had passed I knew that I had to say a few words about how much Lorna & I loved him.

My Grandad was a lovely man. When I think of him the words that come to mind are caring, humorous, cheerful, compassionate and a family man. It is impossible to summarize how lovely of a person he was to us and everyone else.

Grandad was always good at having a laugh and having a pint in his hand, but he also helped others. He told us to go and do whatever we dreamed because life is short, always supported our decisions and gave advice when we were stuck. He helped stick up for Lorna and me when my parents would say no to an adventure. Grandad had a kind soul and was always helping others in need before himself. We are going to miss him.

Lorna and I always referred to Grandad as Grumpy Grandad, although he was far from it and always treated us like princesses when we came to visit. My earliest memories with my Grumpy Grandad was when we took day trips to the Hoe and he watched us run around for hours before begging him to take us to the little park. Afterwards he would always make sure we got an ice cream before we left! I didn’t fully appreciate those moments but looking back it was really wonderful how much attention and care he gave us.

Over the last years as Lorna and I grew older and busier with our lives we tended to see Grandad slightly less, but each visit was memorable. Instead of going to the Hoe, we would always go to Aunty Maureen’s. Each time we went they would always make sure we had yummy food in front of us usually tasty cooked ham, but I kid you not Grandad cooked some of the best roast potatoes I’ve ever had! We would sit there for hours eating delicious food, catching up and just having a good laugh. These memories I will cherish forever.

Grandad loved coming to stay in Tetbury with us for a few days at a time. We used to take him to all our favourite spots like the common to play golf, and on several occasions helped with the school runs! The last time he stayed with us and the last time I saw him, I had my 18th birthday. We celebrated by going to our local pub to have a couple of drinks and juicy steaks. It will be a night I’ll never forget.

We’re going to miss our Grumpy Grandad’s charms and love. One day in the future I’m sure we will meet again; we’ll give him a hug. Until that day we’ll make sure to honour your memory and pass down your love. My Dad gave me this signet ring before going away to University that Grandad once gave him - we share the same initials, and I’ll be sure to pass it on too.
Grandad, we want to thank you for being such a wonderful person to us, your family and friends. I’m sure we are all going to miss you dearly and we’ll love you for always and forever. We love Grumpy Grandad.