Dad was born in Hotel De Zwaan, Nuenen (the Netherlands) on 12 September 1926, number six of 11 children. On 19 April 2020 Dad died in Royal Berkshire Hospital, Reading, UK. In between these dates were 93 years of life well-lived, spanning a world war, two continents and many countries. His legacy is love, friendship and (always) laughter.
Because of the extraordinary COVID 19 pandemic circumstances and the global travel ban we have decided to do things a little differently to say goodbye to Dad.
On a practical level; a “no-attendance” cremation on Saturday 02 May 2020 at 09:00. When we are free to travel again, we will celebrate Dad’s life with our family and friends in Nuenen where Dad grew up with his five brothers and five sisters, and where their parents are laid to rest.
Dad was a great supporter of Alzheimer’s Society and their invaluable work in trying to beat this horrendous, cruel disease which affected him and continues to blight the lives of millions. We invite you to support vital research to end this miserable disease by making a donation in Dad’s name - or just to share your memories here. Thank you.
Dad left us during globally unprecedented times – perhaps appropriate for an unprecedented man!
Yours in great sadness, but also deep gratitude for a life well-lived.
Bianca, Tracy and Michael.
April 2020
Donated in name of Roisin "Secret Valentine" Bailie
Martin’s individualistic entrepreneurial skills were a great gift in a friend. He could be relied upon to present a point of view completely off my radar on a whole raft of topics. This is perhaps best epitomised by his wise counsel during a later difficult time of my life where I can recall him saying “You’ll see that this mountain, will be nothing but a molehill looking back!”.
Martin (MCL) was a great man, told lots of stories of his life which always made you smile, live life to the fullest, travel, meet lots of people and tell your stories. Will be missed by family and friends.
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