Colin Arthur Gleed, 80, of Milbourne, Malmesbury, was remembered fondly by a large congregation at St John the Baptist Church, Little Somerford, on October 4, at a funeral service that followed his cremation.

Colin, who on September 22 died at Miranda House nursing home, Royal Wootton Bassett, was well known over a wide area. He was born in Brinkworth in 1939, and in 1942 the family moved to The Crows Nest Farm and public house at Cleverton.

After primary school in Little Somerford, Colin attended Malmesbury Grammar School from which former classmates have enjoyed many reunions that Colin has organised in the past quarter of a century.

As a school leaver Colin worked for Autonumis before returning to farming, but switched career in his forties, after gaining building qualfications at Trowbridge College. He and his late wife, Verity, were married at Malmesbury Abbey in 1963. They enjoyed weekend dances at the Locarno in Swindon, and evening roller skating. Their sons Andrew and Nick were born in 1963 and 1967.

As a builder, Colin was never short of work, and enjoyed entertaining and gardening. The arrival of six grandchildren brought much joy, and the family was a great comfort when Verity sadly died in 2004. Colin took personal interest in each grandchild, and paid for their driving lessons. He also loved to help with family building projects.

In widowhood, Colin found companionship with Merce, who had also been widowed, and their families enjoyed spending time together. He was a popular man, and in his final illness he enjoyed a constant stream of visitors at Miranda House in Royal Wootton Bassett.

Many memories were shared over refreshments at The Volunteer, Great Somerford, after the service.