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Star's tribute to much-loved dad
ILKESTON actor Robert Lindsay paid an emotional tribute to his father at his funeral which took place in the town on the day that would have been his parents' 61st wedding anniversary.
More than 100 mourners attended St Mary's Church, Market Place, to pay their respects to Norman Stevenson who died in his sleep with his family at his side on Friday, December 11.
The My Family and GBH star attended the service with his wife, the television presenter and actress Rosemarie Ford, and his family.
Mr Stevenson and wife Joyce, who died on New Year's Eve 10 years ago, had been married in the same church 61 years to the day, Robert told mourners.
Robert spoke at the emotional service, saying: "On this very spot 61 years ago they were married, so please smile at that thought.
"They weren't academics. They weren't going to change the world – their wealth was their love and they passed that on to us, their love will never die."
Speaking of his mother's death, the actor said part of his dad had also died that same time.
He said: "He washed, cooked and shopped but he became grumpy. He'd lost his love, his wife, his pal, we nicknamed him the Victor Meldrew of 'Ilson'. He was so lost without her.
"Years ago when they married, they couldn't afford a honeymoon. This is their honeymoon now – let's wish them a very happy holiday."
Robert's daughter Sydney gave a reading at the service.
Rev Dr Jeffrey Fewkes led prayers and told family and friends about Norman's life.
He said Norman was a proud family man, spoke about his jobs, his love of playing cards and described his support for both Derby County and Ilkeston Town.
Norman founded Ilkeston Colts Football Club and spent a lot of time at the Three Horse Shoes pub, playing dominoes and skittles.
Robert and other family members wiped tears as Norman's coffin was carried from the church to the sound of Bing Crosby's I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas.
Robert thanked Treetops Hospice, Erewash palliative care team and district nurses.
Mourners left donations to Treetops Hospice. To leave tributes to Mr Stevenson, go to www.ilkestonadvertiser.co.uk.
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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