Book Of Remembrances

Brian Collins - High Wycombe 41 Club

The members of High Wycombe 41 Club were very sad to bid farewell to Brian Collins in July 2018 after a short illness.

Brian was born on 30th June 1937 in Ilford where he joined the local Round Table, becoming Chairman in 1976. Due to business commitments he moved to High Wycombe where he joined the town’s two 41 Clubs and was later invited to become Honorary President of High Wycombe Round Table for two years in 1987. At the end of that term of office, he was elected Chairman of High Wycombe 41 Club and in 1999, Chairman of Wycombe Old Tablers.

Brian served in the Royal Navy for his National Service and spent some time in submarines. His duties took him to Malta and later he was involved in the Suez crisis. His nickname in the navy was Jumper Collins and the name Jumper was later bestowed on the family’s black Labrador!

Brian was a very enthusiastic cyclist and rode with the High Wycombe Round Table/41 Club cycling group on many trips to France where, often visits were made to St Quentin, Wycombe’s twin Round Table Club. His other passion was golf and he was a long standing member of Wycombe Heights Golf Club. This activity took him to several interesting places such as Cambodia and Korea. He was also a keen member of the photographic group of the local U3A, winning several prizes for his skills with the camera.

Gardening was also one of Brian’s passions, as those of us who have visited “The Pad” would testify.

Brian met his future wife Valerie in 1962 and they married in 1964. Three children, Julian, Adam and Ella followed and later they became proud grandparents of five grandchildren.

His work life was in Sales, mainly in the food packaging industry, and he later specialised in plastic cups, yoghurt pots and other associated containers. He finished his career as the Area Manager for major accounts.

The Wycombe Round Table and 41 communities will miss Brian’s enthusiasm and dedication. He published and printed both 41 clubs members’ directories for many years and was always cheerfully willing to help and take part in all activities.

Our sympathies go to Val, the children and grandchildren and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.