Donald Mothersdale (21 Jan 1932 - 13 Apr 2024)

In loving memory of Donald Urwin Mothersdale who sadly passed away on 13th April 2024 aged 92 years.

Don was born in Whitby, elder brother of one sister - Jean. At the age of 7, and following the death of his father, he was sent to live with his Aunty in Barnburgh away from the bombings, and was brought up along side his cousins Les and Geoff. He returned to Whitby in 1941 for a short period before returning to a farm in High Melton and thence Belle-vue when his mother got a job in the offices at the railway plant. It is here where he developed a love for steam engines and got his first job as an apprentice painter working on railway carriages doing the fine external detail. In 1950 he joined the Royal Marines and successfully got his green beret - of which he and his family are very proud. He met his future wife, Merle, of 66 years when death did them part, at Walt’s wedding in 1953. He was the beloved father of three daughters: Jayne, Mandy, and Katy; father-in-law to three son-in-laws: Stephen, James and David; grandfather to seven grandchildren: Beth, Joe, Heather, Megan, William, Eli, and Harry; and great grandfather to two great grandchildren: Dylan and Jesse. It would be true to say that he gave his all to the bringing up of his close family - which meant everything to him. Sentiments which were reiterated in his final days.

He qualified in highways engineering - coming top of class in each subject area. Like his father, he worked for the local council. During this time he was also the youth, welfare, and sports secretary as well as chairman and president of the union. At his height he was organising and/or playing in over 10 different sports and was the Counties ‘go to’ person for guidance and support on how to do “outdoor pursuits properly” (Director Adult Training, 1974). So committed to these roles was he that the council had to install his own private phone. Additionally he took on community roles including initiating and organising Neighbourhood Watch activities and clean up campaigns - which were formally recognised by the Mayor, and concurrently took on the role of Scout Master for Bawtry in 1972 - where many adventures were had over many years.

He also tried his hand at building. This included doing the technical drawings for a kitchen extension at home and executing said plans on his own - spade by spade, brick by brick; as well as building a modern milking parlour at the farm in Whitby - literally following plans scribbled on the back of a brown envelope.

Following retirement Don’s community and sporting interests did not curtail. He became a very active member of several bowls clubs as player, secretary, and chairman. He started clubs, supported struggling clubs, organised teams, trips, and competitions, ran fund raisers, and initiated and led the building of the new Wheatley Pavilion.

He was a true inspiration, a gent before his time, an active and committed citizen, and he will be greatly missed by all.