Cmdr Lawder

Wrington Web Archive
Commander Michael Lawder, OBE, RN
printed in the Village Journal, May, 2004



			Commander Michael Lawder 14th February, 1920 - 29th February, 2004 A great many of those who have had cause to be grateful for the hard work and dedication of Michael Lawder gathered on 22 March at a service of thanksgiving at All Saints' Church. The service was conducted by the Rev Roy Hickes, who reminded us what a stickler for detail Michael was in his role as Treasurer for Redhill Church, and that theme was continued by other speakers - including Prebendary Derek Hooper, for whom Michael acted as both secretary and treasurer.
		Derek also recalled the many times he shared a drink with Michael, although he restricted his meals there to just one! He was also very particular about where he sat in church, which was the same seat that his father had occupied before him. The reason? "It's the one seat where you can't be seen from the pulpit." Friends spoke of his vigorous independence - especially as he became frailer. But most of the memories concerned the enormous amount of work he put in on a voluntary basis for so many local groups and charities - invariably keeping their books and papers in perfect order. His years spent in the Navy were also detailed: in his role he was responsible for supplies to a great many vessels - and knew exactly where they all were! This part of his life was celebrated in an act of remembrance by local members of The Royal British Legion, and a very moving Last Post was sounded by Richard Whiting. Michael had been cremated at South Bristol Crematorium 15th March, 2004