ON December 21, the day with the least daylight in the winter, the darkest day of the year said Preb Anthony Geering, Crediton Parish Church was filled with people remembering and celebrating the life of Martin Cooper MS FRCS.

Mr Cooper had died suddenly at his home at Neopardy, near Yeoford, on November 24, aged 71. Mr Geering led the service of celebration.

At the service Mr Cooper’s son-in-law Tom Baird laid out how Martin had become a highly respected surgeon, even though being told at school, Forest Grammar School in Winnersh, Berkshire he was not good enough.

Mr Baird said that nearly five decades later, Martin retired as Medical Director of the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust.

"Throughout his career - whether in London, Bristol, Chicago or Exeter - shrewd assessors of surgical skills remarked that Martin was one of the best technical surgeons they had ever seen," said Mr Baird.

He continued: "One colleague recalls that Martin had the ability to make pragmatic decisions without needing every test and scan ever invented. That common sense, along with his technical ability, made him a truly outstanding surgeon who benefited the lives of so many."

He added that as well as in the operating theatre Martin’s practicality was evident in other parts of his life such as poring over an Ordnance Survey map when on a walking holiday or ski slope, or doing DIY at his home.

Martin had truly loved life, having-a-go at golf, playing cricket - but sailing and rock climbing were his favourites and to try to make sure those with him got the best out of every minute.

Even though he and his wife Joan, they were married for 47 years, travelled all over the world, Martin was happiest in Devon and on Dartmoor or in his beloved garden with Joan and the dogs.

"Martin showed genuine compassion. With Martin there was never a wasted word. He would always listen patiently before offering sage advice.

"Above all else, what mattered to Martin most were his patients and the individual care he gave them.

"Testament to this is the number of letters Joan has received from many former patients and their families," said Tom Baird.

He added that under Martin’s leadership, cancer services in the Peninsula had flourished, national frameworks implemented and sub specialisation achieved.

This all led to improved outcomes and care for thousands of patients.

Mr Baird said that Martin’s colleagues had spoken of the huge legacy he has left - from being instrumental in making lasting changes in the way cancer care is organised to championing the FORCE cancer support centre, the charity for which he was the Patron.

Mr Baird said Martin loved people, although quite a shy man. He had a healthy respect for the different skills everyone took to the operating table.

"It was this deep respect for others - along with his inner steel and perseverance - that ensured he got the job done," said Mr Baird.

But beyond all his professional successes his greatest pride was his family. With his widow, Joan, he leaves a daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren.

Mr Baird ended: "Martin saw life for all its wonders and possibilities and I am sure, like us, everyone is immensely thankful for the part he played in our lives."

A retiring collection at the service in Crediton was for FORCE Cancer Charity.

FORCE said: "We are saddened at the sudden death of our Patron Martin Cooper. There are no words to express the deep sorrow we feel.

"Our love, thoughts and sympathy are with his family and we will try to support them in whatever way we can."