Omnia - Autumn/Winter 2019

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OMNIA

Issue 06 Autumn/Winter 2019

OBITUARIES

NEIL MANLEY (OC 1992 – 2000)

It is sad that we announce the passing of Neil Manley due to a road traffic collision on Sunday 30 June 2019. Neil was part of the Class of 2002 and joined Caterham Prep School at the age of 8, in Alpha in Pam Sparrow’s class, before moving to the Main School for First Year. Whilst at school Neil took a keen interest in art and photography and played bass and drums in a number of bands. After leaving Caterham in 2000, Neil continued his education at Reigate College before going on to complete an Art Foundation, before studying a BA in Contemporary Media Practices at the University of Westminster. Neil decided to change track and graduating as a physiotherapist at St George’s University in 2013. Post studying Neil carried on his physiotherapy journey, working in various physiotherapy jobs in and out of London, including at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and the Southwark Enablement Team. When not working Neil travelled extensively, including living in Taiwan, where he taught English and learnt to read and write Mandarin and travelling throughout the world to visit friends and have new experiences. Neil even travelled to Nepal to volunteer to rehabilitate children with cerebral palsy, living there for 6 months. He carried on his interest

in art, frequently drawing and painting whilst indulging in his other great love – motorbikes – building, riding and maintaining a number of them. Neil had a great passion for life, had many great experiences, made friends all over the world and lived his life to the fullest he possibly could. He was well-loved by his classmates, colleagues and patients for his warm and caring nature. Following his death his family has received many letters from those he treated, paying testament to his patience and compassion and commitment to helping them. The family have also received messages from all over the world, talking of his generous nature and easy going, fun demeanour and how much people valued his friendship. Neil will be sorely missed by those who knew him, but his family finds comfort in the care he received at the end of his life at St George's, a place he loved so much. Should friends and classmates wish to show their support, a donation could be made to the London Air Ambulance service and St George's Neuro ICU, where Neil was treated. Neil was a much-loved son and brother to his immediate family and great friend to all he met. He will be missed forever. ■ Written by his brother Chris Manley (OC 1989 – 1999)

MARTIN LEWIS CROOK (OC 1945 – 1952)

Martin boarded at Caterham School from the age of 9 and the School provided great strength and comfort when his father was killed in North Africa during the war. Martin went on to work for the insurance company, General Royal Exchange, from Caterham School. He married Betty (who predeceased him) with whom he had two children Janet and Ian, and delighted in his three grandchildren Sam, Joshua and Megan. He had recently married Kate Woodhead and they enjoyed a short but full life together. Martin thought much of his time at Caterham School and had asked for the school song ‘The Debtors Song’ to be played at his funeral. ■ Written by his daughter-in-law Helen Crook


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