Tribute to Wing Cdr (Rtd) Neil Flowerdew, 1946 - 2026

I was introduced to my cousin Neil in 2014 or 2015. We were asked (or conscripted) to represent the Flowerdew family regarding the Edmonton Canada based Lord Strathcona Horse (Royal Canadian’s) Regiment’s request to have our great uncle Gordon Flowerdew’s Victoria Cross loaned to the Regiment as a part of their 100th anniversary celebration of Gordon’s March 1918 cavalry charge and sacrifice. Neil and I had numerous chats and correspondence to ensure that the medal would be in good hands for the celebrations. And it was. Following our successful conclusion of that arrangement in 2015, I happened to be in England in the fall of 2015 and visited Neil in Bexhill. Neil took me around the region and explained its history. Neil was a gracious host and I had the pleasure of being introduced to Kathy. The three of us had a very enjoyable dinner at one of their favourite Italian restaurants. The next time that I saw Neil was in March 2018, when 30 or so Flowerdew’s assembled in London and bused to France for 5 days to visit the 1918 battleground. The tour was a great success with all credit to Neil for his organizing the event and the historical context and the follow up visit to the family home and church in Norfolk. All this commentary, to say that I had the pleasure of meeting and knowing cousin Neil. I enjoyed his sense of humour and whit (seasoned with a bit of sarcasm). He was an accomplished man whose company I enjoyed and think of fondly. Everyone should have relatives like Neil. Our hearts are saddened with his passing, but our memories are strong. Kath – our thoughts are with you and the family. Regards from British Columbia & Nova Scotia, Canada Roger & Deborah Flowerdew Pat (Flowerdew) and Murray Owen Julie Flowerdew Gordon and Kathleen Flowerdew (and family)