Remembering Peter Proctor-Cannon
Peter didn’t want all the talk about his life at a funeral hence direct cremation, as he put it those who need to know, know.
When asked at the Registrars what was he retired from – boilerman at the prison – my face must have said it all. They said ‘well you can choose any job he did, was there a job he particularly loved?’
Paul, our nephew said “being a veteran” – not a job, but we agreed on Lance Corporal, British Army (retired), a job he left in 1979, but that made him a veteran and it’s something that was so important to him.
Even on holidays he would carry poppies and poppy crosses just in case.
When our War Memorial needed repaired, what could he do? He could stand and talk, so that’s what he did at weekends and bank holidays a self styled “guardian of the bucket”, thanking all for their generosity. He was occasionally accompanied by other veterans and even a Chelsea Pensioner came up from London to help.
He was also proud to be part of the 11 November gathering at the Clock Tower, and slowly with the participation of Brambles, Amble Links and King Edwin schools this became known as “The Children’s Service”. He loved that these young people made their own tributes, took part even in the cold and wet and asked questions. Last year unable to organise it himself he was pleased to see Bartle Rippon successfully take it on and to know it will continue into the future in safe hands.
Thank you to all who have been part of Peter’s life, especially as a Veteran and the two events mentioned. Peter’s Regimental Motto: Merebimur: We Shall be worthy: He was and you are.
Ruth Proctor-Cannon
