Malcolm Tonks (12 Feb 1948 - 8 Nov 2024)

In loving memory of Malcolm Tonks who sadly passed away on 8th November 2024

Everybody knew my Dad Malcolm as "Malc", but - as was often of people of his era - that was only his second name. He was officially a "Kenneth", but the name only ever surfaced during Doctors or Dentist appointments.

My Mom's earliest memory of him was as the paper boy - encouraging her own parents not to hand him a Christmas bonus, but to direct the funds to her instead! They eventually began dating and married 23rd March 1970.

Later in that year, they moved into a new-build house a couple of miles down the road from their native Pensnett, to Wordsley - and in September of that year, young Master Philip Tonks appeared on the scene.

Malcolm was a talented guy. He could fix most things, turned his hand to DIY on many an occasion and worked hard to provide for his family. A long working life included spells at local firms Baldwins, Press, Cool Technology and smaller engineering companies around The Black Country.

And he enjoyed a pint! A regular feature of Wordsley pubs, Malcolm could often be seen "supping" in his familiar habitat - including The Queens Head and The Cat.

He also enjoyed holidaying in Germany. The family home in Briedel, on the Mosel river increasingly became a venue several times a year. Malcolm enjoyed the drive - he wasn't a fan of flying. Instead, the 13 hour journey was undertaken by land and sea in whatever his latest car was.

He liked to play his guitar, with many a 60s tune being self-taught - other family members having to suffer the trial and error of a mistaken chord!

In many ways, Malcolm enjoyed the simple life. A hard-working man who provided for his family and enjoyed a pint with friends and his holidays.

Rest In Peace, Dad.