Swanwickers
Clifford Beck and Julia Pattison at the bridge on the River Kwai
I was sorry to learn of my old Jap pow friend Roy's (Bratby) death. He
was always so cheerful. I shall miss him at this year's Swanwick. There
are not many of us left.
Written by Clifford Beck on 24 May 2005
Clifford Beck
Sadly, well loved
Swanwicker Clifford Beck died in July 2005 after a short illness.
It would have been his 90th birthday on November 11th, an apt date for
a war veteran, and ex Japanese POW.
Clifford lived life to the full, and travelled widely.
He recently fulfilled his dream to stand on the Bridge on the River Kwai
in Thailand, not as a prisoner but as a free man in March 2005.
His last e mail to a friend was to say how much he was looking forward
to meeting up with everyone again at Swanwick.
Known for his impeccable manners, thoughtfulness, and positive outlook
on life, Clifford was an inspiration to all who met him.
A true officer and a gentleman.
Julia Pattison
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At the end of last
year I emailed Clifford to tell him that I was going to South Africa with
a Dutch friend. It was to be a Swan Hellenic Cruise and as I knew he loved
this sort of 'adventure' holiday I suggested he might like to join us.
He jumped at the idea especially as there was to be a lot of bridge playing
during those two weeks. So in December 2004 we three had a wonderful time
enjoying the sunshine, the blue seas, the swimming pool, and many games
of bridge.
He was great company and thoroughly enjoyed having two ladies every evening
for dinner. My friend found him a great bridge partner, and she told me
that he taught her a lot about the game even though she herself is quite
an expert.
One night our charming
Japanese waiter shook his hand and said that he hoped we were all friends
now. As always, Clifford took this in good part, and we all laughed.
Towards the end of the holiday Clifford went on a strenuous safari and
that evening, while having dinner on deck beneath the lights of Cape Town,
he told us of the animals he had seen and the wonders of the day.
It was great holiday. God bless you, Clifford. It was a priviledge to
have known you.
Eileen Atkinson
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Recent
years saw the passing of some Swanwick stalwarts.
