We are here to celebrate the life of Michael Quinlan, fondly known as Mickey. Mickey was born on 8 December 1934 at St Olive’s Hospital, Rotherhythe, South London, to parents Maud & Martin Quinlan and, sister Maureen. Within a few years brother Alan was born followed by sister Patricia. It was during his early years that he got locked in the outside “lavvy” when the bombs started to drop. Mickey couldn’t unlock the door – this frightened the life out of him. We’re not sure who rescued him in the end but he did recover eventually. During the Blitz and with Martin away at the war, Maud and the children were moved to Yorkshire where some happy times were to follow, when the family returned from Yorkshire it was to Catford and then Downham, Bromley where another 3 children were born; Cynthia, Linda & Martin. In his late teens, it was discovered that Mickey had perforated eardrums which stopped him from doing his 2-year national service. This didn’t however deter Mickey from driving the lorries which he loved. He was also a milkman and, a dustman for a few years, and because he changed jobs regularly, it was hard keeping track of him. Socially, Mickey had many a good weekend with his mates and family. Driving to Southend and Hastings and, sleeping in their cars overnight after having had a good time during the day. Mickey was well known as the “loveable rogue” by his friends and family members. During his 30s, his family lost track of his whereabouts due to him moving around so much. However, he always turned up for weddings and family celebrations. During Mickey’s 40s, and after several wedding engagements, he married Carol – a divorcee with two girls. They lived in Nottingham for a few years but unfortunately the marriage broke down and Mickey was back to his “path of freedom” once again. In the early 2000s, we once again lost contact with Mickey. It was about this time that Mickey’s heart problems, eventually leading to a stroke, began. He entered hospital once again and had one leg amputated. Mickey by this time had moved to Ringwood, Hampshire. The family did visit him as much as possible but with their own commitments to deal with, it proved very difficult. Unfortunately, Mickey then had to have his second leg amputated due to infection and this proved quite a downer for the once very positive and upbeat Mickey. He became quite unwell at this time, and had various carers to help him. Because of Mick’s stroke, he had difficulty speaking clearly, he had some very amusing conversations on the telephone with the family who thought he had been drinking and was a bit drunk. Mickey thought this was great!!! A couple of family albums were made for Mickey by sister Cynthia to look through whenever he felt the need. By 2013, Mickey had moved to Eastleigh, Hampshire, after several moves around the area. He finally settled and loved living in his little bungalow in Hamilton Road where, he was once again taken into hospital, he was having great difficulty with his breathing and his organs started to fail. Mickey died in Winchester Hospital on the 26th January 2015. Mickey was much loved by his family; he was always suited, booted, and very handsome with a pretty girl on his arm. Goodbye and God bless Mickey.