Dearest Uncle George, you were such a beacon of safe, solid strength and joy to me whenever I got to visit you and Auntie Sue. I loved the feeling of your beard when you gave us a hug as a child. All my love to Sue and your gorgeous girls and many wonderful grandchildren. Forever my favourite, Uncle George.

At home and work, George’s memory is still all around us.

In our house, he made the handmade winding staircase in Canadian Redwood, and the window sills and mantle shelf are all in English Elm. The clock on the mantle often reminds us of him each time it chimes. I still have beautiful hardwood boxes and cabinets he has made for me.

A fire kerb appeared one day, unexpectedly, as George had decided it would finish off our new grate practically and nicely. He was kind.

His knowledge of wood was terrific, and he could pick up almost any piece and tell from which tree it came. George’s experience seemed unlimited. He acquired his coach-building skills using ash and other timbers combined with sheet metal when coach bodies were hand-built and were the primary source of transport for the masses after the war. He also had excellent mechanical knowledge; he was a friend and support to a local classic vehicle club and could often be engaged in repairing his vehicles.

George had great strength, lifting window frames and doors with ease. I would stand by entirely redundant as he just quickly picked things up on his own. He worked on churches and historical buildings with sympathy and care.

Together we completed a bow-wood display case to contain the Bere Regis turret clock as the No 1 exhibit at the County Museum; I did the design, and he made it in bent ash and curved acrylic.

Of course, he had many yarns to tell, and I suspect my curiosity caused him some tribulation sometimes, but he could relate a wealth of adventures when encouraged.

The time scale of jobs can extend as a master artisan strives for perfection. You cannot always rush traditional materials and finishes; it is not always possible; as a result, George was sometimes misunderstood by those that did not understand the craft and had to wait for a while before he came to them. Still, the critical and foremost objective was that he created an object to admire for a long time afterwards. He was always willing to help.

His perpetual legacy and heart are in many places if you know where to look.

George, I will miss your cheerful whistling as you came down the lane to visit.

We will never forget you.

Alastair MacLean.

George was a Life Member of the drama society in Wool.
He made beautiful sets for our productions for years. He was responsible, reliable and nothing was too much trouble for him.
He was a kind and caring man who devoted his life to Sue and their children.
He was well liked and we will miss him.
Rest well George.
From all his friends at the D’Urberville Drama Society (Wool) XXXX

George was so lovely and kind, a true “gentle man”. Many happy memories from our time as members of the D’urbervilles. So sad to hear of his passing, my thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his family. Much love to you all xxx

To the man who taught me how to cook a sunday roast and putty a sash window, I will never forget your wisdom, strength and kindness.
Thank You for Everything.
Rest in Peace
My Father in Law and Friend
George

George was a Life Member of the drama society in Wool.
He made beautiful sets for our productions for years. He was responsible, reliable and nothing was too much trouble for him.
He was a kind and caring man who devoted his life to Sue and their children.
He was well liked and we will miss him.
Rest well George.
From all his friends at the D’Urberville Drama Society (Wool)

To Sue and family
We are so sorry for your loss.
Ellen and Reg
D’Urberville Drama Society

Remembering a lovely villager – friend of many here in Winfrith & East Knighton. He will be sadly missed by his family. Sending love to them all and especially Sue.