Geoffrey Morris Spaul – 1992.
Geoffrey Spaul
Died 2nd April 1992.
From the Parish Magazine – May 1992.
It was with great sadness that we heard of the tragic accident to Geoff Spaul on Thursday, 2nd April while attending to his boat at Geldeston.
Geoff and Barbara come to live in Denton just about twenty years ago and almost immediately entered into the village community life. We soon found we were being entertained by their musical talents at village events with folk songs and guitar accompaniment. Geoff became a member of the Village Hall Committee and the Parish Council, where his positive and fair-minded contributions were always appreciated. He eventually became chairman of the Village Hall Committee. His diverse interests were reflected by his membership of the Tennis, Bowls and Social Clubs as well as keen interests in car mechanics and boating.
The formation of Denton Variety Club allowed his talents on the stage to be exploited still further where he and Barbara have played a prominent part. His versatility as an actor were shown in such varied parts as Fairy Bella Donna in “Sleeping Beauty” and Hercule Poirot in the latest production, all of which were approached with a great sense of humour.
All these activities were in addition to the pursuit of a very devoted career as a teacher. His ability in this profession is evidenced by his progression through schools in Ilford, Beccles and Redgrave to become head teacher at Stradbroke Primary School. The words of Tim Brook, Deputy Headteacher at Stradbroke, sum up his ability as a teacher and the sentiments of us all “Geoffrey was a gentleman in every sense. We have lost a fine head teacher, a kind caring person and a good friend".
Rev. John Simpson led an emotional but beautiful memorial service at the URC Chapel, and we echo his sentiments as our Love and Sympathies go to Barbara, Simon and Rachel and also to his father, brother and other members of his family in their sad loss.
Thank You
We would like to extend our sincere and grateful thanks to all those who have given us their time and thoughts, washed up, done the shopping, cleaned the house, acted as chauffeur, made cakes, arranged flowers and helped to make Geoff’s funeral an occasion to remember, not one to forget. But, most of all, thanks for being there, listening, and letting us cry. With so many hands holding us up we know we can go forward.
Thanks everyone. Donations for the NSPCC and other charities came to over £500.
Barbara, Simon & Rachel Spaul.