ST GODWALD’S Church in Aston Fields was packed full on Wednesday as more than 100 people gathered to bid a fond farewell to Bromsgrove war veteran, author, musician, scholar and teacher Peter Ward.
Peter, who passed away on May 29 at the age of 95, served during the Second World War in Africa and on board the Russian Convoys and took part in the D Day Landings.
The service was attended by family, friends, representatives from local art organisations, his publisher and Julian Lloyd Webber who knew Peter through the Birmingham Conservatoire Association which the veteran helped launch.
On the coffin as it was brought in was a cushion featuring the sailor’s white beret and his array of war medals.
Rev Holzapfel said it was a great honour and a privilege to conduct the service, describing Peter as an exceptional man, a well-decorated war veteran, a wit, a talented musician and author and a person who loved meeting people.
Those gathered heard many funny anecdotes, including one about when Peter met The Duke of York during a Buckingham Palace Garden Party and gave him one of his books and how people could not leave Peter’s house without having their own personal piano recital.
The vicar’s words and eulogy, by Jeremy Patterson, his friend for over 50 years, epitomised Peter’s character and led to plenty of laughs.
“Everyone of you knows Peter in your own unique way.
“He brought so much joy, fun and laughter to people’s lives.
“He passed away peacefully in his sleep, after a truly remarkable 95-year life.”
