Second World War veteran Richard Colwell dies at the age of 94

By: Liz Dadson April 6, 2015 1843

Second World War veteran Richard Colwell dies at the age of 94

Second World War veteran Richard "Dick" Patrick Colwell of Kincardine died Sunday, April 5, 2015, at the South Bruce Grey Health Centre, Kincardine hospital. He was 94.

Beloved husband of Mary “Lil” Colwell (née Brannon). Dear father of Terry (Bonnie) Colwell and Steve (Gladys) Colwell, all of Kincardine. Predeceased by his son, Robert.

Cherished grand-dad of Samantha Colwell-Castles (John Castles), Scott (Marissa) Colwell, Jason (Laura) Colwell, Dan Colwell (Sheila Thede), Kerry Colwell (Terry Weber) and Terra Colwell, and great-grand-dad of Sammy, Flynn, Ahleigha, Alexa, Jennika, Jamieson, Jannessa, Jaiella, Taylor, Lauren, Jessie, D.J., Brittney, Victoria, Caitlin and Alexis.

Loved brother of Terrance (Pansy) Colwell of Newent, England. Predeceased by his brother, Robert (Lisa) Colwell. Sadly missed by his nieces and nephews.

Back in September, 2013, Colwell was thrilled to have returned to him four medals - the Africa Star, the Italy Star, the France and Germany Star, and the Medal for War Service - which he had lost 40 years ago during a move to Canada from England.

Thanks to the hard work of his grandson, Scott, the medals were replaced and re-presented by Kincardine mayor Larry Kraemer at the municipal hall. "I never thought I'd see them again," said Colwell. "This is so exciting."

Born in Ireland, June 15, 1920, Colwell moved with his family to Gloucester in the southwest of England, at a young age.

He served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) from March, 1939, until 1946. He was a transport driver in a mobile fleet of ground vehicles that supported the fighter squadron every step of the way. He would often carry airfield support equipment, passengers, etc., at a moment's notice.

Colwell served in the Middle East, mainly, but also served in Africa, Italy and Europe. He played an important role in the effectiveness of the RAF, ensuring that people and equipment were available in the right place, at the right time.

Transport drivers would often operate on their own and required great initiative and self-reliance. He was the team player, known for his great character and loyalty.

Colwell met his wife, Mary, in 1944 and they had their first son, Robert, in 1945 during the war. With all that was going on, Colwell managed to be at the birth of his first son and then returned to the fight.

After the war, he moved his wife and son to Dagenham, Essex, England, where he and Mary welcomed two more sons, Terry and Steve. The family came to Kincardine in 1972.

During the move to Kincardine from England, Colwell misplaced his four air force medals. But, fortunately, his grandson has managed to replace them. Colwell is thrilled to have his medals back as they are a symbol of his part in the freedom that Canadians enjoy today.

Visitation will be held at the Davey-Linklater Funeral Home, Kincardine, Tuesday, April 7, from 7-9 p.m., where the funeral will be held Wednesday, April 8, at 1 p.m., with Pastor Kenneth Craig officiating.

Interment, Kincardine Cemetery.

Memorial donations to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 183 Kincardine would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.