Well, what can ‘A SAY!’….Stephen, Steve, Stevie, Steph……Smithy. A man of many names but one unique character! He was so much more than just a work colleague – he was the nucleus of our work family. He was part of the furniture, an ever present, an institution. He was the ‘go to’ on many a problem or project. ‘Smithy might know?’, ‘Speak to Steph, I’m sure he was working on that last year.’, ‘Has anyone seen Smithy?’. He had been there, done it, got the t-shirt. If you were having a bad day, you could guarantee that a trip to go and see Smithy would soon perk you up. His mischievous, playful ways were legendary throughout the factory. Sneaking up on people, hiding, jumping out, clashing and banging, raspberries – all part of his daily repertoire. His knowledge and expertise were varied and extensive – a trailblazer from the early days of Applied Holographics. Loyal to the company, his colleagues, his friends. He took the knocks through his 35 years with the company but he never flagged, never faltered, never fell, stuck to his guns. A passionate man in every aspect of the word – in his work, his opinions, ideas and beliefs. You couldn’t help being drawn in by his infectious humour, his laugh, his stories – even his annoyance, his anger, his disagreement – but that is what made Smithy ‘Smithy’. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was never afraid to show it. Genuine, honest and so funny – he was a pleasure to be around. Steph’s passing has left a gaping wound in our work family which will be hard to repair. He really was the heart and soul of this site. I feel extremely fortunate and proud to have known Steve and have memories and stories that will last a lifetime. Thankyou for everything and Rest in Peace my mate….. until we meet again. Davey Cooper
Dave Cooper
30/01/2026
