Alan
Being four years older than you & living in the same house for many years I can just remember the day you were born at 1 Fore St, Winsham. So we grew up together just like brothers until your family moved to West Street, Winsham. You would always beat me wrestling, mainly due to your size 😂. Your mother Joan & father Ted were like adopted parents to me. When falling out with granny I would go over to your house & sleep there in the same room as you & Stephen, having great laughs until we pushed you dad just too far, I was shocked when I was given the belt the same as you two😳! Your dad treated me like his own son & taught me many life skills like, motor cycle & basic car mechanics,driving, shooting, fishing, rabbiting & even tickling trout. We went our own ways when I joined the Royal Navy at sixteen, but coming together whilst on leave. We both got married & visited one another with each other’s children. I was godfather to your son Eddie. All went well for many many years until I fell out with you over your dad funereal & didn’t speak for about six years.
On hearing the sad news of your terminal illness it was only right we should mend those broken bridges, which we did & I’m grateful for.
To cut a long story short I just want to say you were a real hard working family man who lived for your family as I do. This is something to be very proud of & you will live on in your children & grandchildren. Please never forget you are loved by all your family, myself & my family!
Goodnight Albert & family!
Albert Ridler
15/07/2023
