TRIBUTES were paid to the secretary of the Crediton branch of the Royal British Legion, Derek Rowe, at his funeral service held on the last day in July at Crediton Parish Church.

The service was taken by Preb Anthony Geering. Draped with the Union Jack, Derek’s coffin was led into the church by Crediton branch RBL Standard Bearer Mike May.

Among other members of the branch present were the president John Higgs and the chairman Nigel Cooper, who spoke at the end of the service.

Nigel said Derek was like a lighthouse whose beam of light shone through to those who needed guidance and who needed help.

He asked those who knew Derek, and who he had helped, to think of Derek and to dedicate their kindness to Derek’s memory when they, too, helped someone.

Born at Mill Street, Crediton, Derek went to the Hayward’s School leaving at 14 to be apprenticed to A White and Sons.

He became a painter and decorator and later maintenance engineer in local hospitals.

His father had died on the beaches at Salerno, Italy in World War Two. He had promised Derek a bike, a pledge honoured by his mother, leading to Derek being a lifelong cyclist pedalling with friends on long and regular trips such as Lands End to John O’Groats.

He had taught his grandchildren to ride a bike and Preb Geering said they and his great grandchildren would all miss his keen interest and love.

His National Service was with the RAF as ground crew on Spitfires, an aeroplane he was fanatical about.

Derek’s three years with the RAF was the only time he lived anywhere other than Crediton.

He and Marion were married in December, 1955. They bought 59 High Street which was the family home until 10 years ago when Derek made the short move across the yard.

Derek kept his interest in the football club, he belonged to the Scout Group, became Group Scout Leader and was much involved in the Gang Shows at Crediton.

He was also busy with his allotment, even more so after Marion died. Travel abroad took him to India, Malaysia, New Zealand and Cyprus as well as family holidays in Cornwall and Devon.

Mr Geering said he remembered Derek cheerfully out in the rain at the Farmers’ Market in Crediton, selling poppies for the Royal British Legion appeal.

He said Derek was “a true lifelong Kirtonian and a lovely soul”, he and Marion both being remembered with much affection.

North Devon musician Roger Colome played a tribute near the end of the service, saying they had met many years ago through his music and Derek’s love of dancing.

Donations in memory of Derek were for the Royal British Legion and Hospiscare and may be sent to LeRoy Funerals, 94-95 High Street, Crediton EX17 3LB.

Sue Read