On 5 September, we had the sad task of bidding our member Willie Williamson farewell on his final voyage, following his battle with an aggressive cancer.
Willie joined the North Wales branch of the Merchant Navy Association during the early days of its creation and was a regular attendee.
Willie first went to sea as a radio officer working for the Marconi Marine Radio Company and spent seven years at sea, during which time he met and married his wife, Margaret. He then became a shore service engineer to spend more time with his family.
As a National Council member of the REOU (Radio & Electronics Officers' Union), he ensured that the interests of service engineers were looked after as well providing much appreciated sound counsel during the union’s transition from radio officers to radio electronics officers.
He was a member of numerous groups and associations including the ROA (Radio Officers' Association) which honoured him by providing their flag as a shroud for his coffin. Several members travelled considerable distances to bid him bon voyage – such is the respect and affection he generated amongst his friends and associates.
In bidding him our enduring respect, we wish him calm seas and gentle breezes on his final voyage.
North Wales Merchant Navy Association
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