Michael

Michael’s 90th Birthday: A Lifetime of Memories and a Gift to Lifelites

At 90 years old, Michael has lived through some of the most defining moments of modern history – from the Blitz and VE Day celebrations to a long and successful career, a loving marriage, and a life filled with service and community. This summer, he chose to mark his milestone birthday not with gifts, but with generosity, raising funds for Lifelites.

Michael’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and compassion. His life truly embodies the values at the heart of our 25 voices series. For this new instalment, discover below Michael’s fascinating story, in his own words.

Early Life in Wartime London

I was born on 10th June 1935 in East Ham. Most of my childhood was during World War 2 and I remember the Blitz and the V1 and V2 Rocket attacks. During the height of the attacks, my mother kept me and my sister away from school. We didn’t mind and if the weather was good, I used to sit on the roof of the Anderson Shelter listening for V1 Bombers. When I heard one coming, I would blow a whistle and all the nearby neighbours would descend to their shelters.

I remember being woken up at 11pm on 7th May 1945 when it had been announced that the War was over. We then went to the East Ham Town Hall to celebrate with thousands of residents.

Building a Career

I left school in 1951 and found a position for a firm of Lloyds Insurance Brokers in the City of London. In August 1953, I was called-up for National Service and served two years in the RAF Police at Harwich, Essex.

On completing my National Service, I returned to the Lloyds Brokers in August 1955 and worked there for almost 10 years. I then went to National Provincial Bank Ltd and National Westminster Bank PLC and rose to Senior Project Manager.

During my employment I worked on all the privatization issues and major takeovers, including being Senior project manager on the Euro-Tunnel and Disneyland Paris projects.

In December 1991, my department was moved to Bristol. I received early retirement at the age of fifty-six years & six months.

Love and Family

I met my wife, Barbara, in March 1958 as a result of my own sister getting married. I did not have a girlfriend at the time, so my sister asked a colleague if she had a friend who would accompany me to her wedding. Barbara agreed and we had planned to go our own ways after the event. I am delighted to say that never occurred and we married on 10th October 1959.   

Barbara left her role as a Senior Data Analyst (before computers) to become a full-time mum and home-maker. She was extremely caring and understanding, often looking after sick members of our extended family.

At the start of my retirement, we moved from our address in Ilford. We spent time in Great Dunmow and Braintree before settling in Thorpe-Le-Soken, Essex.

During the earlier years Barbara and I would take holidays in the UK or go away at weekends. We were members of the National Trust, English Heritage and Historic Houses Association, and would regularly visit their establishments.

I liked decorating the home, as well as gardening. Unfortunately, due to advancing years, health matters and poor mobility, these are activities I can no longer do.

Sadly, Barbara died on 16th November 2018 from Lung Cancer. We had 59 years of happy and delightful marriage, and I miss her greatly.  

A Life of Service and Community

I have always kept busy. I was a South Essex Juvenile Modern Ballroom and Latin American Dance Champion in 1951. I was also a Member of the Essex Special Police Constabulary, and I held a Private pilot’s Licence. Last but not least, I was a Scout Leader, and a Member of the Royal British Legion, National Trust, English Heritage, Historic Houses Association and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds!

I became a Freemason in December 1963 and am currently a member of North Essex Masters’ Lodge No.9831 and was presented with the Certificate of Merit for Distinguished Service to Essex Masonry in 2019. Without doubt, Freemasonry is an asset and has had a great influence on my life, having been proposed in to it by my father. I’ve found that the more I’ve put in to Freemasonry, the more I’ve got out of it, and I have acquired a great number of friends over the years.

Facing Loss and Finding Strength

I’m not aware of any specific reasons for my longevity, other than a good up-bringing, good behaviour, and a caring and loving family.

Family has very much played an important part of my life and am lucky to have such a fantastic family. I have three children – two daughters and one son – six grandchildren – four boys and two girls – one great grandson and a great granddaughter on the way. My three children keep in very regular contact with me and one of my daughters speaks with me daily.

Technology and Change

I’ve seen a lot of changes in technology during my lifetime. The changes in technology and the way of living it has enabled has been outstanding. I did not get involved with computers until after I retired. It was actually very useful when I was working, as I was the only senior member of staff who could still work the traditional, non-technical systems. 

Although I now have a computer, laptop and mobile phone – I have to rely on my son Paul, if any technical issues arise!

Giving Back at 90

I became aware of Lifelites particularly during my son Paul’s tenure as a Trustee. I like to tell people about the support the charity gives to children and their families through their amazing technology. The fact that Lifelites is able to provide help and equipment that is not available from other charities needs shouting about.

I chose to support Lifelites because at ninety years of age, as I did not need any birthday presents bought for me. If I need something, I can buy it myself!

I’m in the autumn of my life and I’m keen to give those who are at the spring of theirs an opportunity to enjoy their own time – however long or short that may be.

Therefore, I requested donations to Lifelites, a very worth-while charity, and the children and families they help. I am proud to support Lifelites and I hope my birthday can help provide this amazing technology to the children who will benefit most from it.

The celebration was held at the Frinton-on-Sea Golf Club on Saturday 14th June 2025 for family and friends. It was a lovely occasion, which appeared to be thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. In the evening, we held a family-only gathering at Paul’s House. Another most enjoyable occasion.  

Join Michael in supporting Lifelites and throw a birthday fundraiser → Fundraise Your Way