Anything you want to share about yourself
(within reason), the family, friends. Let me have it and it will go
here.
Viv Cox (10th Nov '08)
Sorry to be the bearer of more bad news. I
received the following email from Colin and thought Tom might appreciate me
passing the sad news on to his many friends. I'm sure you will join with me in
sending condolences to Tom in his time of sadness. I will not be able to attend
as I am presently in Perth, WA.
Hi Graham,
Long time no hear! Are you aware that Tom Cox’s wife Viv passed away last
Friday? There was a notice in Wednesday’s Daily Telegraph. The funeral is next
Thurs 13th at 15:45h Easthampstead Crematorium, Nr. Wokingham, Berks.
Easthampstead Park
Cemetery & Crematorium
South Road
Nine Mile Ride
Wokingham
Berkshire
RG40 3DW (Map)
Tel: 01344 420314
Fax: 01344 862953
Email: cem.crem@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
Tom would be most appreciative for the support of those who could possibly be
there. Please pass this on to anyone you feel should know.
Best regards,
Colin
From The Telegraph:
"Vivien Rosemary
(née Hodgetts) born 17th March 1942, darling wife of Tom Cox, loving mother to
Mike and Julia, loving grandma to Adam, Natasha, Jasmine and India. She died
peacefully at home on 31st October. Funeral Service at Easthampstead
Crematorium, Wokingham at 3.45p.m. on November 13th. Farewell to our darling
Archibald girl."
Dusty's Send Off (4th Sept '08)
I received this message from
Richard Miller and thought that it was best left verbatim:
Dad's service was a very emotional but a very wonderful tribute to
him and his life, made only better by the many old friends and
familiar faces who came, some of whom we had not seen for such a
long time. For the friends who were unable to attend, your thoughts
and prayers were certainly felt, so thank you again.
A few of the "flyers" suggested I send you a copy of the poem I read
(well, tried to), during the service, as they thought it wholly
appropriate ! I'm sure there is a place like this waiting for them
all - (The picture I have in my mind, it's just like the old Aero
Club at Kai Tak and I'm certain Dad is on San Mig already laughing
at us all !)
I
hope there's a place, way up in the sky
Where aircrew can go when their time comes to die.
A place where a guy could buy a cold beer
For a friend and a mate whose memory is dear.
A place where no doctor or lawyer could tread,
Nor a management-type would ever be caught dead!
Just a quaint little place, kind of dark, full of smoke,
Where they like to sing loud, and love a good joke.
The kind of a place that you ladies could go
And feel safe and secure with the men you would know.
There must be a place where old pilots go,
When their wings become heavy, when their airspeed gets low,
Where the whiskey is old, and the women are young,
And songs about flying and dying are sung.
Where you'd see all the fellows who'd 'flown west' before,
And they'd call out your name, as you came through the door.
They would buy you a drink, if your thirst should be bad,
And relate to the others, "Now there’s a good lad!"
And
there, through the mist, you'd spot an old guy
You had not seen in years, though he'd taught you to fly.
He'd nod his old head, and grin ear to ear
And say, "Welcome, Dusty, I'm so proud that you're here!
For this is the place where true flyers come
When the battles are over, and the wars have been won.
They've come here at last, to be safe and alone,
From the government clerk, and the management clone;
Politicians and officials, the taxman, and the noise.
Here all the hours are happy, and these good ol' boys
Can relax with a cool one, and a well deserved rest!
For this is Heaven, my Son. You've passed your last test.
Rex Swann (31st Aug '08)
Further to the sad news I have reported
below, I have received this message from Dick Marsh
"Rex Swann, formerly Station
Manager Melbourne, along with many previous posts and drummer in the Great
Australian Jazz Band(?) died on Saturday, the 23rd August.
Funeral service will be at
Christchurch Chapel, South Yarra at 1030 on the Friday, 29th
Sept. Drinks will be after the service at the Bridge Hotel.
Although this is late notice, I am
sure many ex-CX will remember Rex and like to pass on the condolences to his
wife Judy and family.
I shall let you know of any other
details when I receive them,"
Dusty Miller (30th Aug '08)
It is with
great sadness that I have to let you know that Dusty passed away on Sunday 24th
August. The following is an extract from an email which I received from his son,
Richard:
"As you may or may not have been aware, Dad's health had not been
good for a couple of years and had declined rapidly over the last three
or four months. Knowing him as you did, you can imagine he was hating
the state he was in and very frustrated with life. To that end, his
passing was a blessing and he had Mum, James (my brother ) and I with
him when he slipped peacefully away, happy in the knowledge Mum will be
well looked after by us both. She is bearing up well and is ever
strong, despite having suffered a stroke herself only 7 weeks ago. Her
courage and strength still continues to be an inspiration.
It would indeed be very kind if you could post a notice on Cathay
Classics, as his friends and old colleagues were always central to his
life. Should anyone wish to know, his funeral will be held on Wed 3rd.
Sept at 11:30am at St. Mary's Church, Pook Lane, East Lavant, Chichester,
W.Sussex PO18 0AH. I know Mum would love to see any old friends that
would wish to attend. Mum has requested family flowers only but should
anyone wish to make a donation, then this can be done to The Fleet Air
Arm Officers Association, 4 St. James' Square, London, SW1Y 4JU."
I'm sure you would agree with me when I say that our deepest condolences
and prayers are with his family at this trying time.
Sadly, I also have to report that I have been made aware that Rex
Swann, former Cathay Station Manager, Melbourne has also passed away. I
have no further details in this case but I'm sure he will be fondly
remembered by all of us who knew him.
I'm sorry to be the bearer of news of these sad events - Graham.
The Coney- Jones Family (6th August '08)
Thought you
would like to hear some good news. Chris, son of Norman and Judy got married a
week past last Saturday to a lovely looking Alison. See pic:

I'm sure you
will all join me in wishing the beautiful couple a long and happy life together.
Norm and Judy
don't look too bad either!
Sandra Vickers (17th May '08)
It is with great sadness that I have to report
that Sandra Vickers has passed away in Perth, Australia on Thursday 15th May. All of us will remember
Sandra as a truly lovely and sincere lady who was never without a smile and a
kind word for everyone. We were privileged to be neighbours of Sandra and Ken
during our last years in Hong Kong and will never forget the joy that brought to
us.
The following is a copy of an email received by
Graham and Sandy Camier from Russel and was kindly forwarded to us. If we
receive any further information, I will, of course, post it right away.
Dear Graham and Sandy
It is with great sadness that I inform you that Mum died last night. She lost
her place on the transplant list in February due to a general decline in her
health, and she continued to deteriorate steadily from then on.
Mum handled her entire illness with incredible dignity and bravery, and we will
be forever proud of her for those and the many other qualities she had. Of
course we were all so hopeful of a successful transplant operation giving her
many more years of life, but that was not to be. We are so desperately
disappointed by Mum's death, but I hope we will soon be able to take comfort
from the knowledge that her suffering is now over.
I would be very grateful if you would let those who knew mum, and with whom you
keep contact, know of her death. Unfortunately Mum's address book was lost
during the move to Australia and I think it may be some time before we can be
sure that all her friends and acquaintance’s have received this sad news.
Kind regards
Russel
Russel’s email address is:
russvickers@msm.com
Pete Jerdan (12th Jan '08)
Our grandson, David, (son of Christine &
Don Lemon) has gone solo on 21st December after 12 days’ tuition –
and now wants to be a pilot !! He finished grade 12 at boarding school last
month and will commence a commercial pilot’s licence course in early 2008. His
first solo resulted in two orbits on mid-downwind to keep him from landing in
line-astern with a B737!!…Grandparents are thrilled to bits. That makes FOUR
pilots in the family…(well, three-and-a-half counting me…)..
Pete & Bev Jerdan
From Me
(22nd Dec '07)
Hi Folks, Rose and I would like to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a
Happy and Prosperous New Year.
Normally I would have added this message to the Home (Index) Page but, in my
inimitable style, I have managed to stuff it up. So, the Home Page is going to
have to remain un-edited for a while, until I can figure out how to restore it
to its former glory. I can't spare the time right now as we are off down to
Norfolk to spend Christmas with our remaining UK resident kids and grand
children.
Anyway, have a great festive season.
From
Simon (22nd Dec '07)
Hello Friends,
To start, may you have a Very Merry Christmas and a wonderful and Prosperous New
Year.
As promised, here is the last update for Crazie for the year 2007 - may there be
not too many for 2008!
This year had me in hospital only 3 times - each requiring a General Anaesthetic
- but only to inject cortisone into all the scar tissues of my face and hands. I
would like to say that it worked but there is no diminishing of the feeling of
skin contraction but maybe it has slowed down this process. My surgeon says he
doesn't want to operate again until, at the earliest, March 2008 in order to
allow the Anaesthetic to get out of my body, so this is good news for me! Other
than that, physio-therapy occurs 5 times a week on hands and neck. Enough of
me!!
We had a fabulous trip to Japan, Hong Kong and Shanghai last month - it was
great to catch up with familiar faces and places, so much so that it could
become an annual affair. As for the future, it will be in Cape Town for my (and
others) birthday celebrations in February next.
Please excuse the lack of Christmas cards from us this year but time has had us
too busy mainly with physio, so please accept this update as our wishes to you.
Thank you all for your wonderful support and encouragement this year - it has
been very much appreciated.
Simon and Jennie xx
Dave
Priest (23rd June '07)
Once again, sadly, I have some bad news for you. It's with the deepest regret
that I have to report that Dave (Charles) Priest passed away on Tuesday 19th June,
aged 68, after a
long and brave battle with a brain tumour. His partner of many years, Angela
Shilling and his family were with him at the end. No one will ever forget Dave
if, for nothing else, the humour, often colourful but always kind, that was his
hallmark. Dave will be sadly missed by Angela, his children Alexandra, Alisdair
and James and also grandson Oliver.
Angela has asked me to let you know that Dave's funeral will be held at St
Peter's Church, Church Street, Titchfield, Hampshire at 14:15 on Wednesday, 4th July and thereafter at the
Holiday Inn, also at Tichfield. Family flowers only, please. But if you would
like to make a donation to charity, it is suggest that it be to:
Angela's address is;
93 Thyme Avenue, Whiteley Village, Hampshire, PO15 7GJ. Her phone number is
01489 580245 and her email address is:
angela12p@yahoo.co.uk
Sheena Green (20th June '07)
It is with profound sadness that I have to tell you that Sheena, wife of
Geoff Green and mother of Susan and Sarah, passed away peacefully today, 20th
June, at their home in Western Australia. I'm sure I can say that all of our
thoughts and prayers are with Geoff, Susan and Sarah at this, their time of
distress.
Geoff tells me that it
is exactly 48 years, to the day, since they met and first flew together.
Geoff's address is:
10 Waterwheel Road,
Bedfordale, W.A. 6112,
Simon Creasy's Progress
(11th June '07)
Dear Friends,
Just a very quick update. I went into hospital a couple of
weeks' ago and under a General anaesthetic had several
injections of cortisone put in around the lower half of the
face.
The purpose of the cortisone is to soften the scar tissue (which
is causing a certain amount of discomfort) with view of doing
future injection sessions about every 3 weeks into the rest of
the face and neck. Luckily this will not require general
anaesthetic but only sedation! Perhaps I can accelerate that
process with Heinekin!
Anyhow, there will be no further reports for these injection
sessions but when further surgery is called for, next year I
believe, I will keep you all informed.
In the meantime, thank you all for your words of support.
Jennie and I really appreciate them.
Cheers-'n-Beers,
Simon Creasy's Progress
(30th April '07)
Hello Everyone.
For
those whom may be interested, here is the latest update in the
ongoing saga.
Last
week I had consultations with the 2 burns unit surgeons as to what
to do next. The major problem is the continuing contracting of all
scar tissue on the face - this is a normal phenomenon.
The
consensus of opinion was NO further surgery this year. This is VERY
good news for me - it gives the body time to get rid of the full
anaesthesia which lingers up to 18 months' after administration!
However (and there always is one) on June 1st, I return to hospital
to be fully anaesthetised so that cortisone be injected into all
scar tissue and this will be repeated every 6 weeks for the rest of
this year. The purpose of the cortisone is to soften the scar
tissue so the contracting is 'eased' but also allows the surgeons to
study as to where to do the incisions later on. The follow-up
injections will be done with a 'local' and not full anaesthetic.
So,
good news at last and to celebrate, Jennie and I are off next week
(for 2 weeks') to Hawaii and Fiji - lordy knows, we need a break!
As
always, thank you all for your kind words of encouragement and
support without which, life would have been far harder and recovery
longer.
God
bless you all,
Mike's Farewell (19th
Feb '07)
I have to say at the outset that I was not able to attend
Mike's funeral. This, I regret very much. Ann was aware of the reasons
and was understanding. I gather, however, that the service went off as
well as these things can, with a great degree of dignity and support
from the many who did attended. Tribute should be paid to daughter Jody
who was instrumental in the planning and organization. Son, Martin,
delivered a very lovely eulogy which was so touching and accurate that I
thought I would like to share it with those of you, like myself, would
have wished to, but could not attend. It reveals quite a lot about a
full life, much of which I certainly was not aware of. I have
Ann's permission to share it with you. It is, as follows:
Mike Hardy –
A Celebration of His Life
In our time we
meet thousands of different people, some we remember, some we forget,
but occasionally we meet one of life’s special people, someone you
certainly do not forget; Mike, my father was one of those very people, a
remarkable and truly brilliant man, who influenced, inspired and guided
many.
You cannot
understand what it means to have so many friends and family in this one
place; that would have overwhelmed him. Some have travelled from the
other side of the globe and we thank you all.
They say behind
every good man there is a good woman; (some ladies might argue that’s
the other way round), but in the case of Dad and Mum, never have truer
words been said.
From the late
50s when Mum and Dad met, through Dad’s spectacular rise in the Royal
Air Force, then moving halfway round the world to work for the airline
Cathay Pacific where he rose to the Board of Directors, Mum was there at
every step - encouraging, supporting, entertaining, prompting and
guiding. Mum was a vital part of Dad’s success and has been a tower of
strength since he was taken ill, which gave him the strength to fight
on.
As you can
imagine the last three years have been an incredibly hard time and
without the uncompromising and continual support and love from my sister
Jody, I hate to think how much harder it would have been for Mum. Thank
you Jody.
Dad was an only
child, brought up through the Second World War, later attended Worthing
High School. He applied for the Royal Air Force College Cranwell – for
every 350 that applied, only 30 were accepted. He was awarded his pilots
wings on 26th July 1954. Not only did he excel, but he gained
one of the much sort after slots to train as a fighter pilot.
The early 1950’s
were literally pioneering years in jet aviation and Dad and his
colleagues had to learn to fly hard to fight and survive. Of the 36
pilots that graduated with Dad, 8 were tragically killed in flying
accidents over the next decade.
Dad flew a
variety of aircraft including Meteors and Hawker Hunters from 1956 to
1958. He enjoyed low and fast flying and was also happy upside down,
hanging from his harness straps, often with his cockpit canopy mere feet
from the tail of the aircraft below – and all of this at 350 knots.
Not just a
skilled pilot, he was also a highly capable organiser and leader
destined for great things. As such he was selected as an ADC, or
Personal Staff Officer to the legendary Air Commodore Teddy Donaldson,
holder of the 1946 world air speed record and Battle of Britain veteran.
Dad was responsible for planning both Teddy’s daily military and social
life, something he did with great flair. Teddy had a profound influence
on both Mum and Dad and was one of Dad’s great supporters. With Teddy’s
endorsement Dad was selected to become a Qualified Flying Instructor
back at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell in 1961.
After commanding
the Hull University Air Squadron, Dad became the Deputy Chief Instructor
at one of the Flying Training Schools training the next generation of
fighter pilots.
Dad loved the
flying, but found the office work and studying a bit laborious. In one
of his many inspirational moments, he decided he could save the students
a lot of wasted classroom time and the Royal Air Force money by cutting
out the academics and ground school. This was done by borrowing a cement
mixer and bricking up the front door of the school. I believe one
of his assistant bricklayers is here today.
Dad was a modest
man, never one to blow his own trumpet. One day while instructing a
student, there was a loud explosion in the back of his aircraft followed
by a worrying silence and a complete loss of power. He landed the
aircraft with great skill and was commended. The entry in his logbook
hardly mentioned the incident.
A very practical
man – he objected seriously to having to pay extra life insurance
premiums for what was an inherently risky occupation. His reasoning was
that his wife of two years was so attractive, she would receive plenty
of marriage proposals, and he was not going to let the lucky man get the
lump sum, as well as such an incredible lady.
After attending
Staff College and a subsequent staff job, Dad returned to flying, not
the fighters he may have wanted, but commanding a squadron flying the
large 4 engine Hercules transport. This was to be one of the personal
highlights of Dad’s flying career.
In 1973, years
of drought followed by torrential rain left thousands of Nepalese people
on the verge of starvation. The United Nations appealed for help in
distributing food. The British contribution arrived in the form of
aircraft led by Wing Commander Mike Hardy.
Nearly 2,000
tons of grain was delivered by parachute and freefall drop in demanding
high altitude mountainous terrain, often with no escape route for the
aircraft and crews if anything went wrong. Dad’s planning and leadership
ensured the food was safely delivered well ahead of schedule, before the
approaching main monsoon would have halted operations and people
starved. This was achieved despite 70 mph gusts of wind, short
airstrips, torrential rain and baking heat – Dad flew many of the
missions himself.
A glitch in the
supply chain from England meant the only entertainment available night
after night, after night, after night was the film Zulu. Dad joked he
could supply the names of 184 men who knew the film word for word.
Quoted in The
Daily Telegraph Dad summed up the operation saying “We have never
worked so hard in our lives, but given half the chance we would go back
and do it tomorrow”
Later he
commanded the RAF Station at Leeming in North Yorkshire – over 1,500
people and millions of pounds of her majesty’s aircraft. I treasure an
afternoon watching the Red Arrows past very low over just Dad and I, as
we stood near the end of the runway. Not many Dads could arrange that.
I wonder how
high he would have risen in the armed forces had he continued serving,
but he decided on a career change and took Mum to Hong Kong in 1976, to
a new life with Cathay Pacific Airways. What a life that proved to be!
Always dressed
immaculately in a pin striped suit, Dad was always impeccably well
mannered, and in many ways never left the military behind. Walking into
a colleague’s office one morning, he insisted on calling the gentleman
sir - which for an Australian was a bit of a surprise.
Dad’s rise in
Cathay Pacific was impressive, being promoted to General Staff Manager,
then into Flight Operations, soon becoming the first non airline pilot
to be Director Flight Operations.
Over the years
there were many challenges including operations during the first Gulf
War, events leading up to the handover of Hong Kong, the repatriation of
refugees back to Vietnam – all without incident or adverse press.
One of Dad’s
tasks was to negotiate annually with the aircrew. He would be away for
days meeting well into the night gathering cat naps at his desk before
re-entering the negotiations. He gained the pilots hard earned respect –
in fact they made him an honorary member of the union on his retirement.
Quoting from a
letter from Phillip Chen, the current Chief Executive “Mike made a
tremendous contribution to the success and development of Cathay Pacific
over the years. His hard work laid firm foundations for many of the
policies we have in place today, and we are sincerely grateful for his
steady stewardship in the Personnel and Flight Operations areas”
Mum was an
integral part of that success – welcoming new aircrew and their families
to Hong Kong, running the wives club, accompanying him to endless
functions and hosting tremendous parties – 300 people for drinks on
Christmas Eve – no problem!!
Dad loved
gadgets. One Christmas Mum brought him a small hand held radio receiver.
Our house overlooked the tricky approach to Kai Tak Airport so Dad used
to sit by the pool and occasionally watch the planes with the
unmistakeable green striped tails, listening to his pilots talking to
each other on the Cathay frequency. Somehow they found out and from then
on conversations became very short & business like.
Dad believed it
was important to set an example. In London at the beginning of the air
campaign for the first Gulf War, he decided that Mum and he should fly
straight to the Middle East to ease anyone’s concerns there was a risk
to commercial passenger aircraft. They did.
In his leisure
time he never did anything by halves, besides it allowed him to procure
more gadgets. You will remember Dad for his passion for sailing, but he
also skied and scuba dived. Not content with the mundane side of a sport
he started helicopter skiing – well into his 50s.
Dad badly broke
his leg in a skiing accident, neglecting to tell Mum so she would not be
able to worry. I think God was trying to tell him to slow down when he
broke the leg again – not in a skiing accident, but walking the dog
after a rather good Christmas lunch – probably not the dogs fault, more
likely wine topped up by the vast quantities of brandy in Mum’s
Christmas pudding.
I am not sure
where Dad gained his interest in the sea, but he sailed long before I
was born. Fortunately for Dad (and later for myself) the military
encouraged offshore sailing. He may have pushed it a bit far when one
Monday morning at his London office in the Ministry of Defence, he was
found snoring his head off, lying on his desk fully dressed in wet
oilskins.
Mum and Dad
owned a variety of boats, the last being the beautiful Orla. What a
boat, finished and equipped to perfection (of course full of gadgets),
checklists everywhere, lovingly maintained, and very hospitable – gin &
tonics were usually mixed by the jug, not the glass.
One of Dad’s
worries was that Orla would end up as someone’s weekend hobby lying on a
mooring. It meant the world to him that she now belongs to Dougie and
Trish who had been looking at her for two years. It was meant to be. Who
knows where you will see Orla around the globe in the future – happy and
safe sailing to both of you.
After 16 years
in Hong Kong and 4 years in Sussex, Mum and Dad could not have chosen a
better place to live than Hamble. As in the Royal Air Force, and Cathay
Pacific they made many good friends.
I owe a great
debt to friends in Hamble, especially members and staff of the Royal
Southern who have closed round Mum and Jody over the last few weeks,
indeed the last three years. I include Doctors and nurses, especially
Dr. Mark Thompson, whom many of you will know as Tommo.
The Royal
Southern Yacht Club was a passion, not just a club to Dad and I know he
got as much out of it as he put in. As he requested, rolled up next to
his left hand just now is his Royal Southern tie.
Dad would do
anything for Mum – over a year ago he and Jody arranged for my wife
Melanie and I to come to England from Western Australia for a family
Christmas. It was a surprise, and I mean a total surprise for Mum – she
opened the front door on Christmas Eve to a tuneless bunch of carol
singers – to find out it was Mel and I. Mum could not speak. Everything
had been organised with great secrecy & military precision.
Dad’s
grandchildren, James & Katie live in Kenya and wrote “we are sorry we
never got the chance to say goodbye, we love you”.
Although not
always the easiest man to get along with, you always knew where you
stood as he was a fair and totally honest man who believed in the rules
– perhaps a bit old fashioned, but always for the good.
Once you got to
know him, he had a wicked sense of humour and if you could not see him,
you could certainly hear him, that deep booming laugh.
Courageous to
the end, he fought with incredible strength – a determined, brilliant
and inspirational man.
Nothing will
ever fill the gap you leave; we will miss you with all our hearts, and
that you are at peace means everything.
Mike Hardy, a
man’s man and a true gentleman.
Martin Hardy
Hamble
Thursday 15th
February, 2007
Celebration of Mike's Life (5th
Feb '07)
Arrangements are now in place for Mike's funeral
and, equally importantly, a Celebration of his Life, full and rich, as
we all know, it was.
This will take place at 12 o'clock on Thursday 15th
February at St Andrews Parish Church in Hamble. This is the only church
in Hamble.
I am taking the liberty of including Ann's address,
which is:
22, Old Priory Close,
Hamble,
Southampton,
Hants SO31 4QP
Tel: 02380 561705
Please use this as you think fit but bear in mind
the sadness and grief which must be prevalent during this trying time.
Mike Hardy (3rd Feb '07)
It is with deep regret that I have to tell you that Mike passed
away peacefully at 19:30 on 2nd February, at home, after a long battle with
cancer. Ann and his daughter Jody were with him at the end. It goes
without saying that Mike was greatly respected by all of us and our
sympathy, thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
At this time, I can only tell you that Mike's funeral will take
place in about ten days time but I will keep you informed if I get any
further news.
I have received the following from Brian Bawcombe
and I really have to post it. It says it all - Graham.
I Remember, by BJ.
I remember receiving letters signed by him in answer to my enquiries
about possible employment, but it was just a name and like the title,
Manager Staff Department, it meant little to me in 1978. I remember
receiving a ticket from him, Penang / Hong Kong return and a letter
inviting me to an interview.
I remember my first meeting with him, going into Staff Department, a
tiny office space manned by just a few and thanking him for the ticket.
I remember he muttered something about it only costing the Company the
price of an in-flight meal, but it meant far more to me.
I remember when he was appointed Director Flight Operations, the first
time someone from outside the Department had held that position and I
remember the hours of debate in the Aero Club that followed that
controversial decision. I remember the quiet, unpretentious attitude of
the man who assumed that role, taking up the challenge and meeting the
demands without fuss or fanfare.
I remember the large figure in dark, pin-stripped suits and the quietly
spoken greetings when passing in the corridors. I remember his laughter,
often the first sound that would betray his proximity.
I remember his warm and disarming hospitality at social evenings in his
home, where even the most junior in the group would be welcomed so
genuinely.
I remember my last meeting with him, over a beer at the Albion Hotel in
Perth a few years ago. I remember a man still full of dreams for the
future which sadly were never to be fulfilled.
I remember Mike Hardy, a man's man and a real gentleman.
Greetings from
the Rances (4th Jan '07)
In lieu of posting
cards, we are again sending electronically our wishes for
A MERRY CHRISTMAS & A HAPPY
NEW YEAR.
We will
once more donate the money saved to local charities. Please feel free to
reciprocate in a similar manner!
Alison
and her family continue to have full and useful lives. James has
recently been appointed CEO of the new company Margaux Matrix (UK)
Limited, which very cleverly analyses the effectiveness of TV
advertising. Al continues her work as a special needs teacher at the
local primary school. Hannah & Sam are still doing well at their
secondary school. H is already planning what she will read when she gets
to uni. To this end, she & Al recently had a visit to Berlin! All, we
are pleased to report, are in rude health.
Jo is
still struggling a bit health wise, but this does not stop her leading a
very full life both with Tasia & Milenka (still growing like weeds!) and
supporting Simon’s career in the Army. Si is now back full time with the
Grenadiers, of which he is now Senior Major ( 2 i/c) based at Aldershot,
commuting weekly from their lovely cottage in Corton, Wilts.
Rach’s
& Andrew’s business, JustSo, continues to expand, to the
extent where they have acquired a unit on a light industrial estate
conveniently located in their village. Lucy continues to do well and is
very happy in her second year at grammar school. Harry is continuing to
progress academically and shines at his various sports.
For us
life continues apace in Tillington. Next year we are planning a festival
to celebrate the bicentenary of the famous Scots Crown built onto the
church tower and the centenary of the installation of the organ. We are
both on the planning committee and will be actively involved over the
three days of the festival itself. Bob, as usual, has been roped in to
help raise the funds. There is a small diminution in administration,
because we sold the Meribel chalet in June. Small, because the winding
up process of getting out of the French system still requires an
inordinate amount of paperwork!
Sue
continues her flower arranging, church choir and PCC work. Golf took a
bit of a backseat earlier in the year when she had a hysterectomy, but
has played a bit more recently. Although neither of us are playing as
much as we should, for various reasons. Bob damaged his right shoulder
whilst on holiday in Scotland, which was, and still is, holding him back
a bit. Shooting might have to wait a bit longer before recommencing,
although golf is now feasible.
We
were on quite a long holiday in Australia from October, planning to
return late November. We had visited WA, NSW and got to Queensland for
Adrian Bayley’s 60th, which turned into a surprise wedding to
Ann, his partner of five years! We were then on our way further north to
spend some time on Orpheus Island in the Whitsundays. However, we got an
emergency call to return to the UK where Sue’s brother, John, was
critically ill in hospital! We made it to the hospital at Cosham by
mid-afternoon the following day, courtesy of a ten hour time change and
a very efficient Emirates Airlines. John is, at the time of writing (28
Nov), stable and slowly responding to the medical care, which has only
been administered because of the very strong stance taken by Al, Jo and
Rach during a twelve hour vigil at the hospital the day before we got
back! We are so proud of the way they handled the situation and the
courage and determination they showed, which was initiated by Rach when
she went down to visit with her auntie Jean. We visited the hospital
daily for our first week back. Now we are hopeful John is getting the
correct treatment, we are going every other day. Jean still goes daily
and we are only an hour away, if she needs us. The jetlag is now over
and we are gradually getting our own house and garden in some sort of
order. The Christmas activities are also about to build up – you will be
only too aware! On which note, we will sign off.
With
love and best wishes
Bob & Sue
The Stuart-Menteths, alas a little late
at (3rd Jan '07)
This Christmas letter comes to you from
the sunny island of Penang lying a few miles off the north-west coast of
Malaysia. We have finally embraced modern technology so this year our
greetings and news update come to you by email rather than snail mail.
We are spending more time every year in
Malaysia and this summer we decided to buy an apartment on the northern
beach of Batu Ferringhi – an area well known to Hong Kong based
colleagues and their families from the days when we all seemed to bring
our children here for seaside holidays. Our property – a three-bed top
floor unit – provides us with a four hundred foot high view point over
the coast line and is located behind the Rasa Sayang hotel (which has
recently reopened as an expensive six-star spa-resort.)
The property is twelve years old and will
need knocking about and redecorating so we are keeping our other rented
property until all is resolved. And we are keeping our place on the Isle
of Wight in the UK for the time being.
To the children and their news starting
with our eldest, Oliver …
Oliver and Caroline are now starting
their third year of expatriate living in Annecy. Their big news was the
arrival last summer of Annalise, a sister to Georgina. The family has
taken to French living with relative ease and fluency so when visiting
one does not feel one has stumbled onto the set of ‘Allo - ‘Allo.
Oliver’s one-man business thrives however
he takes the rough with the smooth. Right now, for example, he is
surveying aircraft at exotic Luton airport - a less than delightful
winter destination. And yet there are compensations; during this last
year he was able to visit us twice in Penang whilst passing through and
he seems to have touched base on most of the sunnier continents. He has
also discovered that European Business packs its bags and heads for the
hills during both August and the Christmas holidays so he can exploit
those lulls to take a break with his own family. An unusual situation
for the self-employed who often cannot allow themselves to stop for a
holiday.
We are back in Europe during the summer
months and often drive to Annecy from the Isle of Wight. Or we take
easyJet to Geneva from Gatwick. When driving we cross the channel from
Dover to Boulogne with Speedferries. Twenty-nine pounds for a 55 minute
crossing (at 38 knots) – they are doing to the ferry services just what
easyJet and Ryanair have done to the short haul airlines. A super
service but you must book on the net. We usually night stop on the
journey, often at Troyes or Reims although more recently we have slipped
off sideways to Euro-Disney to revisit the ” Pirates of the Caribbean”,
the “Haunted House” and the “Silver Spur Steak House” where a carafe of
good house red is just 6 euros and the lamb chops come crunchy. For
accommodation at the park we choose the Holiday Inn – they offer an
internet rate of 68 euro for a comfortable family room – and they are on
the free shuttle bus route to take you to the entrance.
And next to Hester … who is still busy
marketing her hotels and has moved from south London to live in Crouch
End – not far from the Arsenal FC stadium. This has reduced her
commuting time so she can almost roll out of bed straight into her
Threadneedle Street office. She kindly invited her parents to stay over
the August Bank Holiday at the flagship hotel. Walking round the City
was distinctly weird – all was deserted, shops and pubs closed – just
the remains of fast food packaging and newspapers caught in the gusts to
be sent tumbling down the empty streets. Just like the “Day of the
Triffids”.
That same weekend Hester went to a Harley
Street clinic to have her eyes Lasiked to correct her myopia and
astigmatism. What a success that was! Her vision is now brilliant and
glasses are a thing of the past. It seems the modern techniques have
overcome the past problems which is reassuring seeing one only starts
life with one set of optical equipment.
Hester is always mobile – Japan most
recently for a walking / exploring holiday but often Europe at the
weekends. London City airport is conveniently close to her by the
Dockland Light Railway and Stanstead is accessible through Liverpool
Street station. She also found her way to Penang earlier this year and
combined her visit to us with a trip to Langkawi to attend a friend’s
wedding on the beach of the Andaman hotel. We expect to see her again
early next year.
And then to Clair - who in just a few
weeks time will be launching on her fourth decade.
Yikes! Tempus Fugit and he won’t be
coming back! Concurrent to this advancing age comes the news that she
has been elected a Fellow of the British Display Society – quite right
too; ten or so years ago they awarded her firstly their silver and then
their gold medal so it seems a natural progression. We are all very
chuffed.
She is still in Dubai with Al-Futtaim and
soon will have completed three years there. Housing is an eternal
problem (shades of Hong Kong) and she has had to move when rents have
risen out of her range. Her last move, a month ago, was to a new, more
affordable unit and she is now hoping that she will be able to stay in
one place for a few years.
Life is good in Dubai. Realistic salaries
with lots of responsibilities and no income tax – we well understand why
Clair is happy there. We spent ten days with her last October on our way
out here but had also seen her in England during the summer when she
came over for Annalise’s baptism.
As to us – we are kept busy here in an
expatriate circle that is centered round the E&O and Lone Pine Hotels. I
don’t think that life has changed much since we first visited Penang
thirty years ago – a bit of building, faster roads, longer runway,
internet and moby phones excepted - so a leisurely tiffin, a cold Tiger
beer or a peg of scotch all followed by a Cuban cigar and a siesta are
still seen as a very acceptable way of transitioning from am to pm.
And, for that matter, back again.
But of course life is not all sleeping –
this year we have explored northern Malaysia from coast to coast and as
far south as KL. We have cruised in the Med., the Andaman Sea and more
recently down the coast of Vietnam where I was able to re-introduce
myself to the Mekong river – 44 years after leaving Laos.
We have also discovered that we could
re-enter Hong Kong on our old ID cards and had retained our rights of
abode there; we have lunched on the terrace of the Oriental in Bangkok
and taken a seven hour train from Rome to Zurich through spectacular
alpine scenery, all accompanied by warm white wine and truly atrocious
cooking from the Italian managed restaurant car.
In short – we have been busy and we are
happy to wind up this year by wishing you all the best for the next one!
Elly & Ned's Christmas
Bulletin (31 Dec '06)
Greetings from Maroochydore once again.
What a dreadful year for the poor farmers.
Having spent some time on a farm (many years ago mind you), both
Ned and Mum Ruby can understand what the poor buggers are going
through. If it’s not floods, it’s drought and bushfires. All
this government procrastination about dams, purification of salt
water and such is really a waste of time. Those of us who have
done a bit of international travelling have all consumed
recycled water, whether we knew it at the time or not. Ned
certainly did, from the 1960’s on, and he is still alive. From
all reports, it’s also the cheapest way to go, so why the hell
don’t they just do it? Ned says it goes very well with Scotch,
too.
We’re still happily ensconced beside the
canal, feeding magpies, butcher birds, peewees, pelicans, ducks
and fish. We certainly don’t need any extra pets and it’s an
excellent way to get rid of suitable waste. Mind you, we do tend
to go through a lot of cheese with the butcher birds and
magpies; but the fish that gather at the end of the jetty will
eat anything! Talk about “garbage guts”. (But you go down there
with a line, and they are nowhere to be seen.)
A really wonderful part of the year was
Alan and Ronita coming home from UK at the end of July. An even
more momentous occasion was when they presented us with a
grand-daughter in October. Yes, we are grannies! Saskia Eleanor
was born 27 October at 04:04 a.m. at the Royal Brisbane Women’s
Hospital, weighing in at 8 lbs 2 ozs. Mum and baby are doing
very well, Dad will probably recover by about February and Elly
and Ned are over the moon. Ned’s mum Ruby is a great-grannie yet
again and she’s rapt as well. Refer photo top right. It’s lovely
to have them living in Brisbane, only about an hour away,
instead of on the other side of the world.

The next momentous occasion will be Evan
and Hana getting married in Adelaide in March. We’ll be flying
down for it and are really looking forward to gaining another
lovely daughter-in-law. Evan has been terrorising the Middle
East from the back of an Orion yet again. He finished his third
tour just a few weeks ago. He’s seriously considering a ground
job at “some time in the future”. We reckon Hana will
decide the time “sometime” next year!
Of course Elly and Ned both had birthdays
during the year and Ned is now officially allowed to retire,
having reached the fine old age of 65. He actually “retired”
from Aviation Australia in February this year, but found himself
running a Dash 8 course at Maroochy airport a few days later.
Then Air Niugini wanted a course in Port Moresby, followed
shortly after by Alliance in Brisbane. So he’s still at it, but
working as a “consultant”, whatever that means. So far during
the year he’s run seven F100’s and six Dash 8’s, so he’s been
busier than when he was working full-time! At least now the pay
is a bit better but that provisional tax is a pain.
Mum Ruby had her 91st. birthday
in June. A bit quieter this time, but still a terrific turnout.
It was a Friday so we made it a family pizza night with Kentucky
Fried variations. She now has a walker on loan from some good
friends and is planning to have GT stripes painted on it and a
horn fitted. We reckon a siren might be more appropriate.
Regents Landing and the local shopping centres are definitely
not ready for this!
Best wishes for Christmas and 2007 from us both and from Ruby
too.
Simon Creasy's Progress
(27th Dec '06)
I received the
following email from Simon and though you would like me to share
it with you - G:
Hello, everyone.
Firstly, A VERY MERRY
CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR to you and
as we are somewhat in turmoil, please accept this electronic
card rather than the 'snail-mail' type.
I have been in hospital for
far longer than I had hoped but recovery has taken
additional time. Jennie moved into our rental house in
Mission Bay in Auckland and we will be there until the end
of January although we can stay longer if we wish. We will
be going to and from Taupo during this time, depending on
the medical teams' wishes.
If you are interested in the
medical happenings to myself, here goes, otherwise miss the
next two paragraphs! I was called into surgery on 22nd
November and this took 6 1/2 hours, consisting of removing
the 3 original grafts on the neck (as they had not really
been too successful) and replacing them with a single graft
of Integra (the man-made skin). Also both cheeks and chin
were replaced with Integra as well as both forefingers and
little fingers which were 'released' and grafted. A neck
brace was then fitted to keep the head, neck and shoulders
in one position to allow the Integra to 'bed-in'. Also hand
splints were fitted to immobilize them to any movement for
the same reason. As for feeding, this was done via a tube
through the nose into the stomach. I was not meant to speak
at all, but with visitors, mainly Jennie and also Jay Ahlers,
it was difficult not to! All-in-all, not a fun time.
Two weeks after the original
surgery it was back into it again, but this time for 'only'
four hours, where the Integra was covered with one layer of
my own skin, taken from two donor sites, one on top of my
head and the other the top of my leg. After a week all
dressings were removed and it was found that the Integra on
the chin had not taken and this meant that it had to be cut
away and replaced with my own skin. Otherwise all other
Integra sites were successful but it meant that I had to
stay longer in hospital to allow the chin and hands to
recover. Luckily, during the skin grafting session, they
took more than needed (standard procedure) and this was
used where required. From here it is just time.
Our daughter, Fleur is now
back in N.Z working (and loving it) at Huka Lodge here in
Taupo, so for us it is great to have her closer to home.
The Sydney apartment is now sold.
Once again, so many thanks
for your messages, thoughts and wishes you have sent - it is
so much appreciated.
With love and best wishes,
Simon
Newsy
Letter from David Baines - Unedited - I Hasten To Add (18th Dec '06)
Greetings for
the festive season, and apologies again this year for the lack
of Christmas cards
We have changed addresses, Formerly we lived at Xalet Grandalla
named for the national flower of Andorra, (narcissus poeticus)
which used to grow in our front garden but when the flowers
became overgrown by the cotoneaster I arbitrarily changed the
address to 24 which was the plot number on the developers plan,
thinking I would also remove the Grand Allah association in case
Mossad paid us a midnight visit, but the council bolted on the
new number on the front door without consultation, so we are now
number 19, Urb. Sorribes.
Everybody is getting older and Veronika took me to the village
hall and registered my name on the old folks register, not
because they are any help with medical assistance, but more
because the Andorrans have the longest longevity in the world,
83.4 years, with an active calendar. Among the expats the social
conversation increasingly turns to geriatric infirmity. Last
week we attended a dinner where the hostess gave a graphical
description of her husband’s colonoscopy, where she
simultaneously handed out sausage rolls providing, with the
little brown torpedoes wrapped in a pastry tube, an unintended,
but graphic simile in case the imagination failed
Veronika continues in good health and despite receiving a clean
bill of health from the cancer clinic in Toulouse, makes a
sentimental journey there every year for reassurance. In my own
case I find that as I pass the three quarter century mark I am
down to three and a half of the available five senses. About a
year ago following the observation of faint double images, I had
a cataract removed from my right eye but noticed that after the
operation I had a fuzzy spot floating in my vision, so I started
wearing glasses which are very successful because I can see the
spot much more clearly now.
I don’t smell as well as I used to. If at all. It is not to
advertise a lack of bathing but more to acknowledge an olfactory
inhibition that I have noticed over the last few years. Apart
from the chance that it could be an early indication of
Alzheimer’s disease, I pondered about the loss of one of my
senses and decided that if you are going to lose any of them,
smell is definitely the first discard, because for every spring
rose that sheds its fragrance for a few weeks on the April
evening, there are at least 25 flatulent topers along the bar
releasing there flatus every five minutes, and they do this for
12 months in the year. Indeed after my first sniff of a dried
fish shop in Hong Kong in 1967 the memory remains, and it occurs
to me that this might be the original cause of my problem.
Indeed I think that in an emergency it could be used for general
anesthesia.
Early in the year we followed the progress of the Airbus 380
which is assembled in Toulouse just north of Andorra. Sadly at
the end of the year it doesn’t seem to be doing too well
because, it is hinted, the German part, which is the tailplane,
doesn’t fit the French Fuselage, but while they were trying to
sort out this problem I remained impressed with the details of
the toilets, The standard fit has 20, with 3000 feet of piping
connecting to the septic tank in the rear of the fuselage, where
in the event of a crash only the economy class passengers will
be in the proverbial. The tank retains an ambient pressure
differential from the pressurized cabin which drives the ejecta
down the pipe at speeds reaching 130 mph, which must add an
entirely new dimension to the phrase ‘bowel movement’. They had
another problem during the high speed flutter testing, when they
drove the aircraft up to an impressive mach 0.96 nearing the
speed of sound, but they had to reduce speed and postpone the
test because the undercarriage doors started to fall off. So
while the European aircraft industry might be falling behind in
aircraft sales, it is becoming a world leader in sewage
disposal.
Having sold the BanBi last year to an aircraft dealer in Madrid
, the first aircraft that we built in Andorra, the Challenger,
was getting old and we gave it away to a group in Belgium who
promised to keep it flying. It needed a bit of an overhaul and
as it was towed away I knew how a mother felt as she gave her
child up for adoption. I thought I had given up flying for good
and let my license lapse and resigned myself to vicarious
enjoyment of the sport but attending an aerobatic contest in
Spain last week I met one of the aircraft owners who also had
served in Zweibrucken where we both flew F-86 Sabres for the
RCAF in the ‘50s. He insisted that I flew, with a copilot, one
of his three aircraft that had been entered in the competition
and apologised because it couldn’t be flown with too violent
aerobatics
having been
refueled for the flight back to Madrid. As I strapped myself
into the parachute provided and noticed the instruments, half in
Cyrillic script, the small gauge at the bottom of the instrument
panel was a G-meter which measures the centrifugal force in any
turn. The min/max readings which were retained on the dial were
plus 3.5 and minus 5.5 so I was very glad that nobody expected
anything too startling from me and after a few rolls and a loop
we came back in before per ardua ad nausea set in
We didn’t much traveling this year mostly on behalf of our
ailing labrador Malicia who was too infirm for neither the
kennels nor even a willing friend, mostly due to an increasing
incontinence and needing garden excursions at 3 am, but she died
in August and we promptly booked a cruise solely because it
started and stopped in Barcelona, which is just down the road.
The Ship was the Century from Celebrity Cruise Lines and was
generally OK except for the high prices for wines and drinks,
and three weeks after disembarking a small news item in the
paper stated that a cruise passenger from the same ship had
fallen overboard and was not found. Veronika said it was
probably when he got his bar bill.
The Parrot, Albert, remains with us, but there are several
willing bird minders that allow us to park him while we are
away. He is vocal almost to a point of conversation. His
favourite expression “it’s time to go.” is freely given to late
lingering visitors.
We had a group of guests in the living room and during
conversation it turned out that myself alone was the only male
in the room who had not attempted the Cresta Run, the bobsled
run at St Moritz. Perhaps I should research other non-achievments,
like failing to become an ace when I was a fighter pilot. For
information, an ace is any pilot who has destroyed five enemy
aircraft. Not many people know that I had three destroyed
aircraft to my credit but as they happened to be ones in which I
was flying, they didn’t count
We are going away from Andorra for an extensive voyage across
the Atlantic and around the Caribbean and will be absent from 17
Dec until 22 Jan.
Norm
(30th Oct '06)
The eulogy that
follows was written by Norm's son and passed to me by Dave Smith
with the option to amend it in length if I saw fit. Well, having
read it I found it so interesting that I could not bring myself to
cut it down in any way. I hope you, dear friends, agree with me.
EULOGY for DAD PART 1 -
Anthony Marsh
Norman John Marsh , Swampy or Swamp to his Air Force mates was born
in Kerang on 27 July 1921. He was born into the loving family of
Jack and Ellen Marsh and was their only child.
Norm's younger years were spent around the Bendigo district where he
went to school. He achieved his intermediate certificate or year 10
in 1935 before leaving school at the age of 14.
He loved life and played football, cycled and swam. He also played
the trumpet in the Municipal Band.
His first job was working with the Victorian Railways in Bendigo.
With the outbreak of WWII he enlisted with the RAAF in June of 1939
just before his 18th birthday. Norm started as a Stores clerk with
the rank of Aircraftman (AC) and progressed through to Leading
Aircraftman . During this time he attended night school having
already decided there were more exciting opportunities available
flying.
Swampy did his Initial and Elementary flying training in Australia
at Somers and Benalla in 1941 - 42.on Wackett aircraft.
On one occasion flying solo in a Wackett the fuel pressure gauge
broke, spraying fuel into the cockpit, followed by the engine
failing . Swampy selected a paddock and glided the aircraft safely
back to the ground . His instructor was relieved when he heard
Swampy and the aircraft were both OK, especially since they hadn't
covered forced landings as yet .
Swampy then headed off to Canada under the Empire Air Training
Scheme. He did his service flying training at Dunville on Harvard
and Yale aircraft , graduating in October1942 as a Sergeant pilot.
He then trained as an instructor and instructed on Harvard and Fleet
Finch aircraft for a year by which time he was a Flt Sergeant.
During his time in Canada he also kept up his swimming, winning
events in a swimming carnival at Camp Borden.
Swampy became well acquainted with the cold winters in Canada,
flying from Camp Borden to Ottawa in a Tiger Moth to check whether
his promotion to Pilot Officer had come through. Eventually Swamp
found out that he had already been promoted to pilot officer on 1
July 1943. Having found out he was now a commissioned officer he
duly made his way to the Officers Mess for dinner in his Flt Sgts
uniform . Unfortunately he was told rather unceremoniously that
until they received the paperwork at the base he would be dining at
the Sergeant's Mess. On completion of instructing duties he did
operational training on the Hurricane before converting onto the
Spitfire and joining No 453 Sqn RAAF, in England.
Initially operations were over Normandy where 453 was one of the
first Sqn's and the only RAAF Sqn operating on the ground in Europe
during the Normandy invasion. Swampy was also amongst a group of 453
pilots who were the first to operate Spitfires into Germany.
453 Sqn returned to the UK and commence dive bombing operations
against heavily defended V2 rocket sites around the Hague in
Holland.
On 27 Sept 1944 with 5 other spitfires over Arnhem in Holland , they
encountered approximately 50 ME109's. During the encounter they shot
down 4 ME 109's .Swampy got one of them.
On March 20 1945 Swamp's Spitfire was hit by ground fire. His engine
was losing oil pressure so he headed for the sea so he could be
picked up by Air Sea Rescue .Swampy climbed out onto the wing only
to find he hadn't disconnected his radio leads from the aircraft; so
he climbed back into the cockpit and disconnected before climbing
out again. Safely off the wing he parachuted into the cold sea. He
struggled to get into the raft until he remembered the correct
technique taught at an air sea rescue course.
453 mounted a rescue mission , but, unfortunately it was
unsuccessful. Thirty six hours in the water later, he eventually
drifted to shore and was picked up by the Germans. Swamp was taken
to hospital and treated for immersion, his feet had restricted
movement for the next two months . He was then interrogated and
transferred to a POW camp for airmen near the Baltic Sea. The POW
camp was liberated by the Russians who then tried to move the airmen
further east , but fortunately the Americans liberated them a second
time and airlifted them to safety .The Russians were having second
thoughts about the fate of these airmen with the looming of the Cold
War.
Returning to Australia , a whole new life now lay ahead of Norm .He
had joined the RAAF as an aircraftman at 17years of age and had been
discharged 6 ½ years later at the age of 24 as a Flight Lieutenant
and a Spitfire pilot. It had been hard work loads of fun and a real
adventure. He didn't even have his Australian drivers license as yet
, but that's another story .
I'll now hand over to Richard to tell you about Dad's life after the
war.
Dad's Eulogy Part 2 - Richard (Dick) Marsh
After returning from the war, Norm began his civil aviation career
with Australian National Airways in March 1946. During his time with
ANA, he flew DC3's and 4's continuing to do this until 1953. During
this period, he met and married his beautiful wife, Roma and they
had their 1st son, Simon in Melbourne.
In order to save sufficient money for a house in Kew he left
Australia's shores for Burma and a busy job flying DC3's for Union
of Burma Airways. Not one to shy away from hard work, Norm flew
relentlessly in the next 12 months operating in and out of Rangoon.
During his time in Burma, Dad was operating at the pioneering edge
of Asian aviation. Some of the villages they were operating into had
not seen a white man before, let alone a great silver bird. Norm and
Roma's second son, Anthony was born in Burma in 1953.
The lure of bigger aircraft hailed and Dad was enticed over to Hong
Kong and a career with Cathay Pacific Airways in 1954. Throughout
his time in Cathay, he flew a range of aircraft from the Douglas DC3
to the Boeing 707. During his conversion to the DC6 in the United
States, he flew with Bill Bridgeman. Bill was the Douglas test pilot
who tested the Douglas "skyrocket" to Mach 1.8 and 80,000ft. This
remarkable feat by the Douglas test pilot was achieved in August
1951. As a testament to Dad's natural flying ability, Bridgeman
later remarked that Norm would be a welcome addition to the test
pilot scheme.
Hong Kong was a pretty relaxed expatriate affair back then, not the
modern metropolis it is now. The parties were formal but
occasionally became rather less so when, ladies in ball gowns and
men in the black ties and suits, had to journey home in a 'wallah
wallah' crossing the harbour from Hong Kong Island back to Kowloon
after all the ferries had stopped at midnight.
During his tenure at Cathay from 1954 until 1973, Norm climbed
quickly up the ranks of the steadily growing airline and finished
his time in HKG as the Director Flight Operations. He had assisted
in moving the small airline from piston aircraft through the
turbine-engine phase and into the jet era. Not bad for the boy from
Bendigo who left school at 14. Jill and I were both born in HKG
during those early years there.
It was in his last years in Hong Kong that the company nearly lost
there 'boss', courtesy of another of the Cathay pilots. One of the
senior pilots had taken Norm for a ride in an old vintage Stearman
biplane. Dad was sitting in the front seat with the flying pilot
directly behind him. Dad was keen to get some photos and to get the
right shots had unfastened the shoulder harness. Without warning,
the pilot behind, who shall remain nameless, rolled the aircraft
inverted. Dad wasn't ready for this and as the camera shot out of
the cockpit he reached his arms up to catch it. You can imagine the
horror of the pilot flying seeing the boss in front, arms extended,
camera disappearing and shoulder straps flowing in the breeze.
Fortunately, Dad had his lap strap on and was still firmly secured
to the seat. The appearance of dropping the boss into the waters
below must have left an enduring imprint on the pilot concerned!
After retiring early from Cathay in 1973, Dad and Mum returned to
Melbourne where Dad was promptly snapped up as an examiner of airmen
for the Dept. of Civil Aviation. During his employment with DCA, he
obtained hid first wide body endorsement on the Airbus, A300
During Norm's flying career, he went from flying 'warbirds' such as
the Hurricane and Spitfire, the early transport aircraft like the
DC3 through to the first twin-engine, wide body aircraft, the A300.
In Aug 1975, in his professional capacity with DCA he was also
fortunate to fly as an industry observer on the Concorde from
Melbourne to Singapore and back. His commercial flying career had
spanned some of the first airliners through to the wide-body era and
included a flight at over twice the speed of sound and just a shade
less than 60,000ft altitude. His 40 - odd years of aviation resulted
in over 20,000 hours flying experience, much of that in hot humid
and testing mountainous terrain.
Throughout his aviation career, the one thing that struck my
siblings and I was the humble understatement he made of all his
significant and somewhat remarkable achievements.
Dad was always one to lead by example. This quality resulted in so
many of his work colleagues commenting years later what a wonderful
and supportive pilot, manager and mentor he had been to many of
them.
Norm was never afraid to take on new challenges and his progress
through his flying career is testimony to this. He was forever
learning and ensuring he was always the quintessential professional.
I will now hand over to Simon to talk a little about Dad's
experience post-flying although, as will become apparent to most, he
remained very connected to the aviation world.
Dad's Eulogy Part 3 - Simon Marsh
Anth and Rich have covered Dad's working life and earlier which
highlight many of his qualities. Dad was a multi talented man, a
great all round sportsman, a natural when it came to flying and in
his business life, obviously highly respected for his good judgement
and leadership. But it was his people skills and his values that he
was most admired for and the reason for his success as a person, and
most importantly he was a family man who always put the family
first.
After Dad retired, his life continued to blossom with new interests,
new adventures and new challenges. Such was the strength of the
relationships that Dad developed over his life from a young adult
until his retirement that they continued through his retirement to
now. He valued the friendships that he developed along the journey
of his life and he put in the effort to ensure they were maintained.
He was constantly attending various functions such as Retired Pilots
Assoc, the Early Birds, the Normandy Veterans, Cathay functions and
so on.
He never lost his love for Cathay Pacific, the aviation industry and
his old mates from 453 Squadron. You would have thought he was still
employed by Cathay the way he followed its continuing successs and
development since he left in 1973 and this was strengthened when
Richard followed in his footsteps in 1984. In his retirement, there
were numerous trips to Hong Kong just to make sure everyone at
Cathay were doing the right thing by his beloved airline.
Dad always had an adventurous spirit, which is evidenced from the
stories that Rich and Anth have already related and these continued
into his retirement. Roma and he were always discovering new places
to travel, Dad had an insatiable appetite for exploring something
new. In the last twelve months at the age of 84 and not in mint
condition he and Mum went on a cruise around New Zealand. As much as
he enjoyed it I think he was finally ready to concede that extended
overseas trips were a thing of the past. One trip that epitomized
his adventurous spirit was when Mum and he set off at 70 years of
age with Dan and Marj Grabau, two friends of a similar age to fly
across Australia in a single - engine Piper aircraft. With the
incessant roar of the engine and very basic comforts they set off
from Balranald and station hopped across Central Australia to Broome
and back.
However, I think Dad's final trip three weeks ago was one of his
most memorable. Anth, and his son Christian, Dad and I travelled to
Temora in country NSW to attend an air show at a well known air
museum owned by David Lowey to celebrate the purchase of a Spitfire
known as FUP, which was originally in Dad's Squadron 453. Ten of
Dad's old squadron mates were there and they were all treated like
Living Legends. Even our Prime Minister attended and was privileged
enough to have his photograph taken with our flying heroes. Even
though Dad's health was not good leading up to the trip there was no
way he wasn't going. His excitement in the weeks leading up to the
trip was like some little kid waiting for their first trip to Luna
Park.
As Dad moved into retirement, he found new interests and new
friends. Golf and Green Acres were no exception. Typical of Dad, he
got stuck into golf with the trademark passion and energy that he
pursued all his interests. He also quickly gathered a whole new set
of friends and became a popular figure around the golf club. In
those days he would play competition three days a week and would
also have a chip and putt on many other days, much to the despair of
Mum. Such was Dads positive outlook on life he retained his full
membership at Green Acres up until last August and he continued to
talk about making a come back over the last twelve months even
though he could barely walk to the end of the driveway. In fact,
such was his determination that he went to the Bulleen driving range
with Richard one day for a practice hit. That sums up Dad. He never
gave up on anything even when the odds were stacked against him. He
had this amazing positive attitude about life and people. He never
said a bad word about anyone. He always saw the positive side of
things.
Finally, the family and particularly Roma were the most important
things in his life. Dad and Mums marriage was made in heaven. After
nearly 60 years of marriage, they were still as solid as a rock. Dad
adored Mum and it was so obvious right up until last week end. And
Mum was so supportive of Dad. The support she gave to him
particularly over the past 2 years when his health started to get
the better of him was an inspiration. Dad was a fantastic role model
for us, his children. He supported and backed us on our decisions,
encouraged us with our dreams, but always after providing careful
guidance and counsel in the process. He never imposed his views but
made them known in a subtle kind of way. He also welcomed our
partners into the family accepting them as they were, given they
were from quite different backgrounds. He embraced Sue Brennan,
Susan Bowron, Jane Gorman and Mick Harper as if they were his own
family and I know they each had a close and loving relationship with
Norm. The values he taught us by his actions are reflected in our
lives and the lives of our children. He had a special relationship
with all of the 13 grandchildren and he will leave a lasting legacy
with them. The love they showed him in his last hours is a testament
to this relationship.
Dad, even though you are no longer with us, the memories you leave
with us all, family and friends, and the things you have taught us
will last forever.
Bon Voyage from all of us, may your last flight be the best ever.
Norm
Marsh (25th Oct '06)
I have received the
following from Dick Marsh and I quote it to you verbatim as I am
sure many of you will want to respond as I would if I were able:
I believe you have been in
contact with Dave Smith regarding my father, Norm Marsh. Could you
post this on your site for those who may be in the vicinity of
Melbourne and who may wish to attend the funeral service.
Dad’s funeral will be held
at St John’s Catholic Church, at
1100 on Friday the 27th Oct.
Refreshments will be at my
house, 7 Higham Rd Hawthorn East.
Jane and I will welcome all
of Norm’s old colleagues and friends so please encourage anyone to
come along and celebrate Norm’s
The address of the church
is:
52 Yarra St
Heidelberg
Victoria
Norman Marsh (24th Oct '06)
Sadly I have to report that Norm
Marsh passed away on the 22nd at his home in Melbourne. He had been ill
for some time. I'm sure that many of you will remember Norm with
fondness and would have wanted to know.
I have received the
following from Dave Smith and I think it succinctly reflects all our
thoughts:
Norm's passing is of great sadness to me, not only because we had a
very close working relationship in the Company, but more
particularly because he was a man of very high character, a
dedicated family man, great company socially and of a very friendly
disposition. Whatever the occasion you would always be greeted
with a ready smile, even in difficult times, and we had a few.
I first met Norm when he joined CPA around 1955. His flying career
started with service in the RAAF in WWII as a Spitfire pilot.
After the war he joined Australian National Airlines, from there he
went to Union of Burma Airways and then to Cathay Pacific Airways
where he rose, through the ranks, to the position of Director of
Flight Operations.
In the early days the Operations Department was not very well
organised. The Company was struggling financially and we were
understaffed. However, through high morale and dedication from all
levels of staff, the Company's fortunes gradually improved. The
flying staff deserve a special mention as they were driven extremely
hard at times, but, even so, in those days, they were always
cooperative, no flight time limitations, no guaranteed days off.
From the Head Office in Hong Kong to the junior employees of the
Company there was a strong desire to make the Company succeed. The
work ethic was excellent. All Departments joined in, worked
together and helped each other in times of difficulty. It was on
this basis that the foundations of Cathay Pacific were formed.
Gradually we were able to set up a Staff Department, a Ground
Training Department, a Briefing Office and Aircraft Movements
Department and to purchase a Flight Simulator.
I could go on at length, but suffice it to say that Norman Marsh
played a huge part in getting these Departments up and running.
This was in addition to his flying duties and in the earlier days,
before Aircraft Movements was organised, to handling aircraft delays
at out-stations, perhaps at midnight or early hours of the
morning. This could involve re-rostering of crews, repositioning
of crews, re-scheduling of aircraft. He would probably be rostered
out on a flight later in the day. The work load was heavy to say
the least, but as said earlier he would always turn up with a smile
on his face ready for the next day's work. He was a wonderful man
and I thank him for his friendship and great support over the years.
Lorna and I extend our deepest sympathy to Roma, Jill, Simon,
Anthony ,Richard and their families. He will be sadly missed by
his family and his many friends around the world.
A Bit Of News from Kim Sharman (13th
[Friday] Oct '06)
At last, I hear you cry! Trust
all is well with you and the family.
Had an interesting time lately with meeting a few ex CX colleagues.
Met up with Barrie Hesketh in Brighton in September, who has set up an
interesting business in the fashion accessory trade. He seems very happy
and has just recently remarried. Didn’t have a lot of time together as
it was fairly late at night when we met up.
Spent an enjoyable evening with Hans Haan at the travellers Club in
London, where he was one of six wine makers from around the world at a
tasting. He has done very well with his wines, and has recently won the
Gold Medal in a world wide competition for the best blended wine. Having
sampled it, it is terrific stuff. He has created a huge reputation for
himself in this field and looks very well on it. I have passed the URL
of the site on to him. His email address is excellence@haanwines.co.au
Found myself being an entry in Brian Mercer’s book on page 199! I missed
the chance to catch up with him when he was in London. Apparently Paul
Jenner arranged a do for him at the RAF Club which is threatening to
become an annual event.
Keep up the good work. It is much appreciated although I know it is a
chore doing it. I have the same problem with my commercial site!
Kind regards,
The "do" mentioned above
apparently did take place and the picture, below, sent to me by Brian
would appear to prove it:
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Johnny Mac's Send Off (30th June '06)
Not unexpected, but it
would appear that the send off for Johnny was really well attended. It
only proves how well thought of he was. As a tribute, I have copied a
couple of reports which I have received. The first is from Brian Mercer
to which I have added a plug for his forthcoming book - poor old chap,
he really needs the royalties. Seriously, I do hope it's a great
success. The second is from another Brian of Bawcombe flavour which,
you'll agree also says it all. I've also added a group picture sent to
me by Adam Takach, thanks, Adam.
Brian Mercer
How are you? Geoff Green told
me about this website and before you wonder what planet I've been hiding
on, I have to say that I am very new to this IT stuff and frankly not
very good at it.
Amazing turn-out for Johnnie
Macs' send off yesterday; there must have about 300 people; some I
hadn't seen for 30 yrs. Including Bob Crocket and Nick Carter who came
all the way from UK just for the funeral. But then John was one of the
really good guys and stood out like a shining light when I joined Cathay
in Jan. 68.
There is an attachment to this
e-mail which will probably interest you and it all started about 2 years
ago when I had a letter from an aviation author in the UK called David
Watkins. He was writing a book about the DeHaviland Venom and I was able
to help him with stuff about the Venom ops. in Malaya during the
fifties. (Malayan Emergency period. He told me that I should write a
book. I thought about it for a while and then decided to have a go. To
my surprise Pen and Sword Books of Barnsley UK liked it and are
publishing it any time now.
The book cover design is
attached. (not attached -G) There are some mistakes on it ( they
couldn't even get my name right) and their first proof was a shambles so
I have my fingers crossed that they make a better job of the final
product. There is a long chapter dealing with Cathay. My best wishes to
you and your family. Brian Mercer.

Brian Bawcombe
Managed to transit London and
Hong Kong for a quick trip home from Copenhagen, and was then able to
attend John McCausland's Funeral.
Although John left Hong Kong
around the same time that I joined Cathay Pacific, I was fortunate to
meet him in Perth during our retirement years and spent many enjoyable
'last Tuesdays of the month' in the company of this gentle and
charismatic man. His early life and career in Cathay was largely
unknown to me, but today, thanks to the courage and pride of his
siblings, all of whom gave testimony to their father, I have a greater
appreciation of the person I was so proud to call a friend.
Of John's six children, one
related a story today of a woman, a single parent, who attended a Beauty
Consultant's Course with her in Hong Kong, with the intention of
establishing an new income earning career. When John's daughter told
him the woman had failed the course, John wrote a cheque to pay for the
woman to do the course again and sent it anonymously to the school with
the instructions that they were to ensure she passed the course this
time around! This was really a measure of the man I had come to know.
The Service, held today in Perth
was attended by some 200 people, with Cathay being well represented by
the likes of Bob and Shelagh Dewar, Brian Mercer, Hal Dyball, Bob
Crocket, Brian Floyd, Geoff Green, Brian Lewis, Haden Ashley, Geoff
Perret, Adam Takach, Les Hawks, Frank Laity, and Clarrie Turner. I know
I may have messed up seniority or missed out some others along with
wives and partners, but that's without intent.
Jet lag precluded me joining the
guys for a few beers but I'm sure somewhere in town today, glasses were
raised by many old friends in memory of a really great guy that we were
all so fortunate to know.
(I have to add that BJ was a
bit reluctant to let me publish his wee report, feeling that it might
appear that he's hogging the website. Bless him, I don't know what I'd
do without his inputs so I've taken an editorial decision and added it
anyway - G)
John McCausland (13th June '06)
It is with the deepest
personal regret that I have to tell you that John passed away peacefully
this morning. He died at home, aged 76, his family were with him.
I am sure you will all agree
with me when I describe John as a true gentleman, in the truest sense of
the word. I know that anyone who was fortunate enough to be involved
with Johnny whilst he carried out his duties in the check and training
department was, indeed, a lucky student. Nothing phased him and his
approach was always with kindness and understanding. He never changed
and treated everyone, both professionally and socially, with an easy
going grace that placed him high in all of our esteem.
I pass on, to his wife, Lisle,
daughters and son, all
our thoughts, sympathy and prayers. Well done, during a rich and
fulfilling life, a true and honest gentleman.
Lisle' address is:
3 Prospect Street
Claremont, 6010,
Western Australia
If any of you would like to
add anything, please let me know and it shall be done.
Simon Creasy - Good News (28th May
'06)
I have just received the
following email from Simon which I present to you, with his permission,
in its entirety as, I'm sure you will agree, represents good news
particularly since he obviously still retains his sense of humour:
Hello Everyone,
I have, yesterday, come out of 2 operations in Auckland this
month. I went in on 10th May to have releases on hands, lower lip
and both eyes. The hands took so long that the surgeons ran out of
time and I had to go back 2 weeks' later to have the job completed.
Since the accident in October last, I have undergone some 11
operations and the surgeon has said I have enough anaesthetic in me
so no more ops this year to get rid of the chemicals. This is good
news as it means we can 'hibernate' in Taupo for recovery and we are
vacating the rental apartment here in Auckland as of the end of this
month. We will come up to Auckland as and when the docs want.
Our future plans are to go to Oz in November and South
Africa in February next year and in the meantime, please keep in
e-mail contact and, once again, on behalf of Jennie, our girls and
myself, so very many thanks for your words of encouragement and
prayers and wishes for the future - all muchly appreciated.
Very best regards to everyone,
Simon 'Crazie'.
Elly and Nev Edwards (24th April '06)
Received the following from
Nev and have his permission to publish it - thanks Nev, - G. Please,
every body else, I beseech you, how about an input.
14
April 2006.
Hi
Graham and Rose,
Awfully sorry not to have been in touch. You know only too well how it
is. I am also lazy, indolent and recalcitrant. Just ask Elly.
Since
Cyril and Dorothy Carey left for Mudgee, the only ex-CX people I ever
hear from are young Peter Jerdan, who I believe is removing himself and
Bev from their Buderim residence for more serene pastures, and there is
that strapping young chap Adam Takach, who resides in Sydney and is thus
only available at the end of either a telephone or email.
I
retired from Aviation Australia on Feb 3rd. this year. Elly
and I thought that this was to be the beginning of a well-deserved rest
away from the dreaded noisy airborne things that we have all been
involved with all of our working lives.
Next
day, a phone call had me preparing for a Dash 8 course, starting on the
8th Feb. “Oh well,” I thought, “one more won’t hurt, and it
is a little money in the bank.” I also arranged that I could
conduct it at Maroochy airport, just over the river from home. Halfway
through the course, there was a call from my old mates in Air Niugini.
Could I possibly see my way clear to do some ground courses for their
Fokker 100 pilots? “Oh well.” I thought, “One course won’t hurt.”
Suddenly, there are five courses this year and probably some more next
year and I’m on a contract! And maybe they want me to do their Dash 8’s
as well. I’m more in demand in retirement than I was when working for a
living! Fortunately, Elly has been blessed with a fine sense of humour.
Otherwise, all is well here in Maroochydore. Our youngest son Alan and
his wife Ronita have indicated that they will be coming home for good
late July. That means they’ll be staying with good old mum and dad of
course. We think they will be after jobs in Brisbane as they are
definitely townies, not country. Also, Evan and his girlfriend Hana will
be getting married in Adelaide early next year, so we’ll be off down
there for the wedding