Second World War veteran passes away

The passing of Mr Thomas Arthur Peake of Wyncroft Heights, Banbridge took place in Lurgan Hospital on Thursday 25th February.
Tom Peake.Tom Peake.
Tom Peake.

He was the dearly loved husband of Irene who predeceased him in 1993.

They had three sons Barry, who passed away in England in April 2014, and surviving him is Graham and Geoffrey.

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A man of many sterling qualities he was respected by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Born in Stafford, he joined the Company of Lotus and Delta and then came across to Banbridge when they opened up as Downshoes Ltd.

Tom and his family liked the area so much and the people he knew here that after his retirement he stayed on.

While in England he enlisted in the army and was injured in France in 1944.

He was severely injured as the result of a tank bomb.

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He spent a lot of his time in Queen Victoria’s House on the Isle of Wight recovering.

After coming to Northern Ireland to Downshoes Factory on the Yellow Hill, he joined the Royal British Legion Banbridge Branch and enjoyed many happy hours there.

He was Past President of the Legion. His main interest, however, was centred around his home and family. Being a staunch Anglican he joined the local Church of Ireland.

He is survived by two sons Graham and Geoffrey, daughters-in-law Mary and Geraldine and several grandchildren.

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The funeral took place from his home on Saturday February 27, to the New Cemetery. The coffin which was draped with the Union Flag was carried from the hearse to the grave by members of the Royal British Legion.

The Legion formed a guard of honour and they paid their final tribute. The service at the home and graveside was conducted by Archeacon Roderic West.

Family flowers were placed on the grave and donations in lieu are being sent to William Bell and Co. Funeral Directors, 23 Kenlis Street, Banbridge, BT32 3LR for The Royal British Legion Banbridge Branch.

William Bell and Co. had charge of the funeral arrangements.

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