Today, 26th November would have been Colin's 72nd birthday. However, whilst I cannot shake him by the hand physically, I can still congratulate him, for such was his influence on me that, for me, he is still there.
I frist met Colin when I went to pick up his daughter, Louise, on our first date, when all were looking out of the window like judges at the ball. I must have passed, as we have been married for many years and have three boys.
This gentleman, for that is exactly what Colin was, along with his wife Eileen metropholicaly grasped this 'struggling' man, wholehartedly welcomed him into their family and knocked him into shape. I shall be forever grateful to them for that and particularly Colin, who provided the paternal support that I so desperately needed. His guidance, support, counselling and occassional cautions helped me to come to terms with my past and to focus on the future. He still does. Though not here to touch, I have recently had many an occasion to seek his advice when contemplating in the shower! What would Colin do or say I think, and so the conversation starts. So you see life contact continues, but in a different, but precious way.
Colin was the proud patriarch of a united family, and I know missed by all, not least his grandchildren, Ben, Joshua and Jonathan, who all sought and shared his advise, counselling and friendship.
My Aunt Kay, who largely brought me up as a child and whom I unashamedly regard as a mother, would have said to Colin if she had met him, which sadly she didn't, 'look after the boy, for he deserves the best'. Her wish was granted. And continues to be so via Colin's wife Eileen, my wife Louise all the family. From the depth of my heart 'thank you all'.
Nick
26/11/04
From Nicholas Lee on 26/11/2004