APRIL 8, 1923-APRIL 11, 2015
A service of thanksgiving for the life of Douglas Leonard “Doug” Cole was held at St Mary the Virgin Church, Wortham, on Tuesday, April 28.
A large congregation was present, and a lovely and caring service was conducted by the Rev Ginny Manning, with organist Nigel Ballard.
Opening music was ‘Going Home’ by Dvorak, and welcome and opening prayer were given.
A moving eulogy was given by daughter Andrea and a poem was read by Stephen.
Words of reflection were spoken by Ms Manning.
During the Second World War, Doug was conscripted from working at the Post Office and found himself in Africa with the 8th Army, working to unravel one of the most potent weapons of the Axis powers, the Enigma Code.
He was secretly intercepting transmissions from behind the front lines and transmitting them to Bletchley Park for analysis.
Even after the war, he was unable to discuss this aspect of his war service even with Maureen, his wife of 33 years, until being released by the Government in 1998.
Following missions to North Africa where he served under General Montgomery, he took part in the Allied Invasion and attack on Italy, including the bloody battle of Monte Cassino.
Recognition for his service finally came with a certificate signed by the Prime Minister, thanking those involved in the Enigma work for their service, before returning to England and a job with the Civil Service and then retiring to Wortham.
Doug became involved with the Suffolk County Bowls Association, and was a member of the Probus Club, Wortham Wine Club, Wortham Bowls Club and Botesdale Bowls Club.
After the final prayer and blessing were given, the music ‘Time to Say Goodbye’, sung by Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli was played.
Family morners included: Mrs Maureen Cole, widow; Mr and Mrs R. Dones (daughter and son-in-law); Stephen and Jan Blayney, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren Joanna, Karen, Matthew, Sam, Jack and Eleanor; Mr T. Blayney; Mr M. Blayney; Mrs P. Wrampling; Mr D. Wrampling; Mrs J. Wrampling.
Also present were representatives from the Suffolk County Bowls Club Association, the Probus Club, Wortham Wine Club, Wortham Bowls Club, Botesdale Bowls Club, Diss Ladies Luncheon Club, and numerous members from the Royal British Legion Women’s Section, as well as neighbours and residents, also attended.
Committal took place later in the village churchyard.
Donations in memory of Doug, for the Friends of Botesdale Health Centre, can be sent via Rosedale Funeral Home, 63 Victoria Road, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4JE.