Page 3 - John Walsh 1935-2020: A Service of Thanksgiving

Twins Martin and David were born eight months later in September 1969.
The family put down roots in Hazel Grove. They bought a VW camper and had several enjoyable trips to the continent, although the first was restricted to Normandy due to engine trouble.
John was a lay supporter of First Hazel Grove Scouts for years. And Brenda and John regularly attended the Garrick Theatre in Stockport.
His passions were gardening, walking, photography and jazz. His legacy includes photo albums documenting his youth and family life, as well as much cherished cine film of babies and young children at home, on the beach and on country walks. In one sequence, Brenda and John lift a swaying double pram precariously up steps over a wall.
He was also practical and ingenious in equal measure, with an interest in everything from electronics to woodwork - he fitted out the van with bench seats and cooker and sink and built a carport that stands to this day. For fun, he once programmed a computer game on a ZX Spectrum.
After retiring, John and Brenda moved to Buxton in August 1999 and bought a house on Alder Grove. They joined the U3A and became part of the gardening, walking and geology groups which explored the Peak District. They also had many trips abroad and to Scotland.
John was a much-loved grandfather to Matthew, Charlie, Max, Harvey, Amber and Jacob. When grandchildren came along he named himself Don as the head of the family.
The family organised a memorable golden wedding weekend at Wardlow Mires in June 2012.
In September 2019 John had a fall at home and an operation from which he never recovered. He died at Haddon Hall care home in
Buxton on 14 March 2020.
John had a long life, a long retirement and was happily married to Brenda for 57 years.
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