I have received over 240 cards plus letters, and this item in the ICN is the best way I can think of to show my appreciation.  We would like to thank all the many friends in Ickenham who have sent cards, letters and flowers during these last few weeks.  We are devastated by the loss of Derek but we have been much comforted by the love and support of you all.  In particular, a great amount of money has been given in his memory (to date about £2,780) and as soon as the cheques have been processed I will be acknowledging them.  We are quite overwhelmed by the response and the realisation that he was thought of with such high regard.  Thank you so much, and God Bless.

Freda, Christopher and Julia Kneale

 

The Service of Celebration, in memory of Keith, was led by Adrian at St Giles’ on 29 October.  It was well attended, reflecting his dedication to the Church, community and family.  Keith grew up in Ealing and, whilst training to be a Geography teacher, met Marjorie, also undergoing teacher training.  This was to be the start of a life of sharing and they were married in Southall in 1955.  They were blessed with two sons, Richard and Andrew, and their family was a great joy to them both.  Keith particularly cherished the times spent with his grandchildren and also took great care of his own parents whilst they were alive.

His teaching career began in Brentford, later moving to Abbotsfield and then Deputy Head of Southborne School.  Education for Keith was not restricted to the classroom and he delighted in driving his pupils in the school minibus all over the UK and abroad.  His active interests were considerable and included singing in three choral organisations.  He played bowls and keenly supported Chelsea football club.  Somehow he found time to lead walking groups, chair the Pield Heath School Governors, be a President of Rotary, a Tutor of English as a Foreign Language and still drive a minibus for Elm Park Dining Club!

He was a loyal member of St Giles’ and, with Marjorie, attended weekly services as well as being Secretary of the PCC.  His faith was evident in the beliefs he expressed and the way he lived his life.  However, 14 years ago, about to lead a walking holiday in Devon, he was struck with a debilitating illness.  For the rest of his life this made every movement a real effort, but he fought bravely to make the best of things and was still walking in local parks shortly before he died.

Marjorie said that she and her family “would very much like to thank the many kind people who sent cards and supportive letters of sympathy at this sad time.  It was wonderful to feel so strongly upheld by prayers after the death of dear Keith."