On many occasions I've penned a rhyme
It seemed apt to write one at this sad time
To share some memories about my Dad
Happy reminders, that make me feel glad.

Photography was a great passion of his
Adrian and I both thought him a wiz
There in the dark room as kids we cheered
When as if by magic a photo appeared.
With sand, rocks and action men a scene we did make
Then, for his camera club, photos he'd take
When advances enabled films with sound
It was as if a brass band followed him 'round.

Dad was so skilled at using his hands
Sheds and Dolls' houses from his own plans
He made a sailing boat with bits of wood
A Miracle - he never thought he could.
He read the books about how he should sail
Then on the first outing the boat turned tail.
He went to night school and built a canoe
Which I thought a really great thing to do.

Of holidays, Dad was the number one fan
Touring the UK and France by caravan.
We bussed to the Alps to learn how to ski
A privilege to master as a family
Dad travelled the world - but where do I start?
Disney held a special place in his heart 
Watching The Country Bear Jamboree
Dad's face was childlike, so full of glee
In later years he went on many a cruise
With a beer and a book, enjoying the views.

"Bargain Hunt", "Doctors", "A Place in the Sun"
Garlic bread with cheese and a steak well done
His nightly whisky watching "News at Ten"
"Just a minute", "Oh dear", time and again.
Laughing (and coughing) at Eric and Ern
To the dining room, he had to adjourn.
Shaking the salt but it not coming out.
I'll always remember, there's really no doubt.

Time spent with family brought Dad great pleasure
and now we have lots of memories to treasure.
I'll think of him fondly while shedding a tear
I hope he's found a good place to sit with a beer
I thank you, dad, for all that you've done
With love, from a very fortunate son.

Phil Thompson, 19 April '21