Dennis Hawes, 1923-2007

Dennis died in the early hours of Sunday, August 12th. My brother Stuart was with him at the time, and said it was a peaceful end. Dennis was an extraordinary man; gentle in his heart, radical in his politics, and so well read that he knew something about almost any topic you cared to name. Anything and everything could spark his interest, and he was never short of anything intelligent to add to any conversation.

His life was marked with tragedy and sorrow. He lost his own father while still a child, then his brother, sister and mother during the war. Den’s own war experiences were horrific, enough to scar the mind of the bravest of soldiers. But Dennis was not bitter, he didn’t hold a grudge. He loved life, loved the hills and coastline around Folkestone, loved my mother, brother and I. He took great joy from watching Barney grow up, and was delighted to be Barney’s grandfather and godfather.

His strong faith allowed him to face death with calm confidence: “I’m not afraid to die,” he told me during our final, tearful conversation. “I’ve had a good life.” He held my hand then, and I wept while he said a prayer for my little family’s future.

He was an inspiration and a source of much love and encouragement. We shall miss him. Rest in peace, dear Den.