My earliest memories of Uncle Tom are of course of times at the farm. For me the farmhouse was always a place of wonder and an opportunity for never ending games of make believe. I used to think there was something magical about the place. 
Sometimes we would arrive and find quad bikes on the lawn, other times we would go for endless walks and end up being chased by the bulls and cows in the fields, sometimes there was music and dancing, sometimes clay pigeon shooting! You never knew what you were going to get, but you knew you would have a good time. 

As i grew older I would welcome family gatherings when I knew Uncle Tom would be there. You always knew there would be stories, fun, jokes, some better than others, and the ever present booming and infectious laugh that could be heard from across the room. He had time for a chat and a laugh with everyone. 

On the years we spent Christmas together in Dorset he would turn up with an enormous salmon which was very much appreciated by everyone. We knew better than to ask questions of where it came from. 

In more recent times we have shared some fantastic times together. Sarah and Warwick’s wedding in New Zealand, weddings in the UK (Uncle Tom was of course one of the last men standing in the wee hours at my wedding) and of course a wonderful time together at Disney a few years ago. Uncle Tom once again proving he was a big kid at heart. 

Heaven just got a whole lot more fun, but he will missed so much by the rest of us. 

I will miss the laughter, the hugs, the stories, the wandering glass eye, the smile, the charm, the non-pc commentary. 

Anne, thank you being a wonderful partner to Uncle Tom these last years. I know you have had some fabulous times together and I hope your memories give you some comfort at this time. 

To my cousins, Anna and Sarah and their families. Your Dad and Grandpa loved you all so very much. He had so much fun on his trips to see you and these times, and all the shared adventures are memories you will have forever. 

These are strange and unique times we are currently living in but I know that when the timing is right we will all get together for a party and a proper celebration.