Dr Norman Owen (9 Jul 1924 - 11 Mar 2018)

Hey ... I know you’re out there Grandpa ... not just in your grave ... or in the soil, or on a piece of paper as a name and birthdate. But everywhere: in laughing remembering one of your famous quirks and offbeat sayings...a wise piece of advice recalled ...and also the advice I didn’t take on - I smile ...at least the older I get the more I understand what you actually meant! I remember when you invited my German friend to stay with us, and how kind you were to make her feel welcome as you made her feel at home and told her your memories of Germany during the War. Every time I catch an episode of Bread.. or walk down to the windy beach .. or cook sausages (You must have them cooked like they are burnt) & just a drop of milk in tea! But as time goes on and the quirky memories fade - the feeling of your kindness and compassion remains. I’m so glad to have been raised by you. It made up for a lot. I am proud to have some of your traits in me. When I think of home, of feeling safe and being loved, it is because you gave that to me. We should not idolise other people, everyone has flaws. But your compassion & modesty in living was more than most. It makes me proud, it is life’s goal to be like that. You are not dead because you are alive in all the good things you passed on to the people around you. And you will be alive forever in all the good things that I pass onto others. It can never die. Love is timeless. Energy is transformed, therefore You live on in me and many other people whom you affected and were kind to. Thank you for your kindness and for teaching me. I will hold you in my heart forever.

My grandparents were the caretakers at the Rimrose Road surgery and I knew Dr Owen all my life. My fanily thought the world of this wonderful man. Such a caring gentle man who was well thought of by all who knew him. I last saw him at my mum's funeral 20 years ago. I just found out he has died and he passed away on my birthday.

My family GP whom I knew for many years from birth to my twenties. He was a caring man and well respected by all his patients and gave great attention to myself and my late parents . May he rest in peace