This blog is normally about all things boaty but I want to take a moment to write about my dad who passed away this past week. Boats were never far from his heart and this picture was taken just a couple of weeks before he died down at the harbor in Ramsgate, England close to where he spent his final years. After spending just about all of the war in the North Atlantic he he left the Royal Navy and went to work for a number of firms supply construction equipment to help in the rebuilding efforts after London was devastated during the wartime air raids. After a few years he managed to save up enough for modest boat, a 20 foot cabin cruiser that 5 of us (yes 5) went away for vacations on. I remember those trips with fond memories; mum, dad and baby sister slept on the boat while my brother and I slept in a tent ashore.
Much later after I started working for the BBC we would take extended trips with the yacht club and traveled all over Europe but mostly to France, Spain, and frequent trips along the English south coast. Dad was meticulous in his note taking and looking back on those logs and photographs now I recall many happy memories.
So long dad, you will be missed, I hope you're enjoying your time in Fiddlers Green.
Mark
My condolences. It's tough to lose a friend........even tougher to lose a Dad. Toughest of all is when he's one and the same.
I know.......mine died 7 1/2 yrs ago, and I still have things to tell him. And to ask him.
He's listening..............
Larry
Posted by: Larry Moynihan | June 29, 2015 at 09:27 PM
Sorry for your loss Mark. Nice photo and write up about your Dad. Sounds like you have some great memories!
Posted by: Glen | June 30, 2015 at 10:11 PM
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family upon the loss of your Father. All the best from the East Coast of Canada.
Posted by: Peter Hanlon | July 04, 2015 at 05:58 PM
Thanks to everyone for all the messages of support. Much appreciated.
Posted by: Mark Corke | July 14, 2015 at 05:53 PM
Sorry Mark - I am just catching up. A handsome man who I'm sure has taught you so much. My condolences.
Posted by: Ken Weinstein | September 15, 2015 at 09:18 PM
Ken
Thanks for your kind words.
Posted by: Mark | September 17, 2015 at 08:53 AM