Alfred Howe (23 Aug 1932 - 17 Sep 2020)

In loving memory of Alfred Howe who sadly passed away on 17th September 2020.
Geoff – as he liked to be called, was born on the 23rd August 1932 in Stretham, Cambridgeshire. He had 2 brothers and three sisters , Roger, Peter, Julie, June and Pat. He married Muriel in 1953 and they remained happily married for 60 years. They had 2 daughters, Linda and Lesley, 2 sons in law, Sal and Phil, 3 grandchildren, Natalie, Calum and Kiri and 1 great grandson Leo.
When he left school he joined the RAF where he worked on the ground, driving trucks and various other jobs. This service led to his love of all types of aircraft especially military ones. He enjoyed taking his family to many airshows over the years. Geoff would happily have spent his entire working life in the RAF but Muriel was not so keen so he went on to work at Crittall Windows where he stayed until he retired, finishing as Drawing Office Manager. During his time there he was joined by his daughter, Lesley , who also joined the Company.
Away from work Geoff used to do various DIY jobs and kept the house well maintained and decorated. He was never the disciplinarian to his children and when asked frequently by Muriel to ‘speak to your daughters!’ he would merely look at them and say ‘Hello dear!’. He was a very calm, laid back person and rarely got annoyed. He was always pleasant to everyone he met whoever they were.
Geoff loved his VW cars and owned various models over the years including an old Camper Van and several VW Beetles in which he took the family camping and caravanning both in the UK and touring in Europe. He did venture into different makes a couple of times but always reverted back to his trusty VWs.
Geoff and Muriel always enjoyed their holidays and visited many countries. In later years they ventured further afield taking more exotic trips to USA, Canada, Thailand ,Sri Lanka and Maldives. They intended to continue with regular trips in their retirement but sadly Muriel developed Alzheimers Disease and Geoff became her dedicated carer for 10 years.
Geoff always enjoyed watching many different sports on TV but his absolute favourite was Formula 1. He kept the weekend free when it was on and never missed a race if he could help it.
During the last few years of his life he took twice yearly holidays to Cyprus with Linda and Sal, where he relaxed and did only as much as he wanted, spending time reading and enjoying the warm weather with a glass of beer or wine. He refused to visit anywhere else except a holiday to Egypt with Lesley and Phil.
Geoff led a very happy life and was mainly very healthy and fiercely independent until the last few weeks. He mainly enjoyed spending time with his family especially his grandchildren Natalie, Calum and Kiri and more recently was thoroughly entertained by his great grandson, Leo.
He also really looked forward to visits from his sisters, June and Pat and her husband Mick and enjoyed taking them out for lunch and a chat
Geoff will be greatly missed by all his family and anyone who knew him.
The family would like to thank Chris and her dog, Manuka and Emma, Matt and family – Geoff’s neighbours – for their kindness and support to him and for looking out for him even before his illness. It was much appreciated.
We would to apologise but due to coronavirus restrictions we are unable to offer refreshments and hope you understand the difficult circumstances at this time.