REGINALD JOHN DICKERSON

Published on 07/04/2010

REGINALD JOHN DICKERSON Born December 1, 1928 - Died March 18, 2010. Devoted and much loved head of the family, skilled engineer and craftsman and passionate collector. Reg Dickerson enjoyed retelling and recording his fascinating (and often humorous) life experiences. Whilst at Northgate School for Boys, Ipswich, the positives of living in wartime Britain were sought out: loot from bomb sites was kept stashed in school desks; live cannon shells were turned into fireworks; and football boots were worn to dig for victory. Reg displayed similar zeal during National Service, and throughout his long and successful career as an engineer. Starting out on the railways (which would always remain a passion), he progressed to the often dangerous sites and sewers of London, which proved to be the most exciting time in his career, including the discovery of Roman pottery and coins, sulphuric acid and plague pits. Regs career then returned to Suffolk, where he had a distinguished role working for Stowmarket Urban District Council (later Mid Suffolk District Council). Throughout his life, Reg loved to collect. His desire to save what - to many - were simply everyday objects demonstrates a real understanding of the value of social heritage, and many local and national institutions are indebted as a consequence. Reg also adored the Suffolk countryside and coast, the inspiration for countless walks, talks and cycle rides (including many with Haughley and District Gentlemens Cycling Society, whose activities were summed up by Reg as Bikes, beer and bells!). Reg also - quite literally - left his mark on Stowmarket and its surroundings, through the many home improvements that he planned and designed for appreciative private clients. Regs energy and independence enabled him to achieve much over the past few years, including travelling widely, designing and building a folly in his garden and writing and publishing a book (a journey along the Suffolk coastline through a selection of postcards). Reg was determined to live at home, in the house that he designed, as independently as possible, for as long as possible. He achieved this admirably. His time at Grove Court, Woodbridge, was comfortable and peaceful and allowed Reg to derive much pleasure from looking out onto and enjoying the sounds of the tranquil, picturesque surrounding countryside, wildlife and railway line. Ultimately though, Regs enduring and true love was his family. He was wholly devoted to his beloved wife Betty, and delighted to celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary together. His sister Mary fondly remembers him taking her on the bus to the local river when she was a young girl. Reg was a loving and adored husband, brother, brother-in-law, father, father-in-law and grandfather. He truly will leave a large and unredeemable hole in all of our lives. The committal service will take place at Ipswich Crematorium, West Chapel, on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at 11.00 a.m. and will be followed by a service of Thanksgiving at Stowmarket Parish Church at 1.30 p.m.

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