The obituary notice of Peter Ronald APPLEYARD

I have been very lucky to have such a wonderful dad. He taught me so much apart from what to do without him. The whole family will miss him and we still can't believe he is gone.

My dad was friends with lots of different people and really wanted everyone to get along and just have a nice time together.

From
Janey and Charlie


In Strelley Village lived a man so grand,
Peter Appleyard, with a heart so unplanned.
He loved the thrill of horse racing's pace,
And the joy of winning, a special case.

At the Broad Oak pub, oh, he found his place,
Next door, a refuge from life's hectic race.
Amongst friends and strangers, he'd always meet,
His spirit warm, his heart replete.

He loved to meet people along the way,
Helping out whenever in his sway.
With a heart so kind, a soul so bright,
Peter's presence made things right.

But beyond the deals and the bets made true,
Lies a soul so pure, so genuine and true.
He didn't hold a grudge, didn't judge at all,
Embracing humanity, standing tall.

With every handshake and every smile,
Peter Appleyard went the extra mile.
In Strelley Village, he was a beacon bright,
Guiding others with his pure light.

So here's to Peter, a man of cheer,
Whose love for life was ever clear.
May the horses run fast, the friendships last,
In his world so rich, so vast.

When I moved into our house about 15 years ago and began to meet people, it was apparent there was a well respected “village Elder”, and his name was Pete. When I finally met him, I understood why his reputation preceded him and understood why he was loved and respected by everyone he met. I admired his virtues, wit and appetite for knowledge. He was an intriguing, enigmatic and big hearted man. The news of his passing swept through this village with a collective sorrow, that only comes from real affection and care; with so many feeling a personal loss. To his loving family, my goodness you were blessed to have him as your own. X

We were all so sad to hear of Pete’s passing, we were just getting to know Pete and Marilyn. He was a very knowledgeable and interesting man , just wish we could have had more conversations about the family. A very brave man who we were honoured to know, your cousins Kath and Dave , Pauline and Carol xxx

We are deeply saddened by the loss of Peter Appleyard , whose kindness, warmth, and unwavering spirit touched the lives of so many . Our thoughts and prayers are with Pete’s family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Peter. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Neighbours from Broadoak Farm, Mark and Eve Yarlett

Heartfelt condolences for Pete’s family, your loss must be immeasurable. What an outstanding gentleman. We moved into the village nearly four years ago, next door to the Appleyards. Into a cottage that was once derelict and used to keep chickens. Lovingly restored by Peter’s friend, the cottage became a loving home once again. Over 40 years later the cottage still radiates that nurture and love bestowed by its custodians. Pete and Marilyn were the first to welcome us into this beautiful community, and the friendship began. Pete was so knowledgeable about EVERYTHING in the village, with incredible detail about the houses and the families that had lived here, his knowledge of the land, of conservation, and the natural habitat. Pete’s advice and friendship has given us so much joy. I miss your reassuring presence when I looked out of the window and watched you busy in your digger, or feeding the horses, painting, sawing trees, clearing leaves; even in retirement your day was always filled, except for the occasional sit down for the horse racing! Latterly, I watched you walk each day to the church and back, your strength and determination to stay mobile, was amazing. I value our chats at the gate, and your compassion and care for others. I look out onto the pond, I feel you’re still here, guiding and reassuring as ever. Kaye Palmer xx

I hope I speak for many if not all who new him that Peter was an exceptional friend, neighbour and helpful gentleman. A constant source of news and historical facts about Strelley Village he will be sorely missed by everyone. It was a privilege to know him. Regards to his Family. Tony & Elaine Bradley

Pete will be sadly missed by myself and the Cragg family as a very dear family friend. A great characterful man who played such a major role in ensuring his children and the children of Strelley village had such a wonderful childhood.
I have very fond memories at the Appleyards of: doing the egg rounds in a Bedford van, skating on Motts pond, mucking out cow sheds, raising chickens, having bonfire nights, Sunday afternoon wrestling, climbing on shed roofs, making dens, ….. the list goes on, and this was all thanks to a very tolerant Marilyn and Pete Appleyard who took it all in their stride.
Every now and again you encounter someone who has a major impact on your life, Pete was one of those people, thank you.
Richard Cragg & Lucia Rosa