Mr John Edward Forster, husband of the late Mrs Forster, died on March 23, aged 81.

Mr Forster, of Riverbank Nursing Home, formerly of Orchard Street, was based in Stockton Heath all his life, although he had spent time abroad.

He was last employed by Firth Wire Company as a wire drawer. Prior to this he worked at Locker's Wire.

In 1942 he enlisted in the Army and served as a gunner in the Royal Regiment of Artillery, keeping the sea lanes open to allied merchant ships. He was medically discharged and became a cook in the Merchant Navy, travelling the world.

He enjoyed reading, outdoor sports, course fishing, country walking (especially walking his dogs), and he bred cage and aviary birds.

Mr Forster leaves three sons, two daughters, five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

A service was held at Hill Cliffe Baptist Church on April 1, followed by interment in the church grounds.

Arrangements were made by A Maddock & Son.