In Memoriam
13th June 2025
Lion Frank Fortey
Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club
Frank had been a Lion for over 45 years and the club is really going to miss him. He was the current Welfare Chairman and Treasurer so his passing leaves an enormous void.
Lion Marilyn Skennerton
District 105sc Almoner
29th May 2025
Lions John Drago
Westbury Lions Club
It is with great sadness that I must share the news of the passing of our dear friend, past President and honorary member of Westbury Lions, John Drago.
John had been receiving support at Watersmead Care Home and passed away peacefully on Thursday 29th May following a brief illness, with care staff supporting him. He was 81.
A treasured friend to so many of us over the years, John's sharp wit, infectious sense of humour, and boundless enthusiasm for life left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His tireless dedication to the Lions, his lifelong passion for Scouting, and of course, his love of trains were just a few of the many ways in which he brought joy, inspiration, and connection to those around him.
John’s unwavering commitment to service, to friendship, and most of all to his beloved wife Anita, defined the man he was. Whether he was organising an event for club or district, lending a helping hand to a good cause, or simply sharing a story and a laugh, John gave freely and wholeheartedly of his time and energy. His warmth, wisdom, and generosity of spirit enriched the lives of all who knew him.
His legacy will live on in the many lives he touched and in the fond memories and stories that will no doubt be shared for years to come among those who were fortunate enough to be close to him and Anita.
John should be remembered with deep affection, admiration, and gratitude. He worked tirelessly for Lions at Westbury and in the District, and was respected by his peers much further afield than at Westbury alone.
Lion Marilyn Skennerton
District 105sc Almoner
19th May 2025
Lion Ken Munson
Marlborough and District Lions Club
Ken was a dedicated member of the club until recently and a Melvyn Jones Fellow (2018)
He was president twice - in 1996/97 and 2001/02
He was Treasurer from 2003 to 2014
I can't tell from the new system when he actually joined the club but he was known by the members as one of the "founder" members. He joined after seeing the Teddy
Bear stall in the High Street., The club was founded in 1976 and it was probably not much longer after that he joined
He was very proud of being a Lion and very active until his health prevented him from being so.
Lion Marilyn Skennerton
District 105sc Almoner
1st May 2025
Mike Hendy
Bracknell Forest Lions Club
Mike was DG in 105A 2000 - 2001 and also DG in 105D (now SC) in 2014 - 2015. He left Bracknell Forest Lions in 2019.
Mike's funeral will take place on Saturday 10th May at St Joseph's Catholic Church, 23 Old Road, Bromyard HR7 4BQ
Lion Marilyn Skennerton
District 105sc Almoner
6th April 2025
Jenny Foan
Loddon Valley Lions Club
Loddon Valley Lions are deeply saddened to report the passing to higher service of Jenny Foan, wife of our President, Lion Geoff and good friend to all members of Loddon Valley and many longer serving Lions and partners in District 105SC.
Jenny had undergone major heart surgery in London and sadly, during her recovery, her lungs failed her. Loddon Valley Lions send their sincere condolences to Lion Geoff at this sad time.
John Goodchild
Secretary
4th April 2025
Lion Ian Gilbert
Chippenham Lions Club
Ian Gilbert, 1946 - 2025
We bring you the sad news of the recent death of Chippenham Lions Club member, Ian Gilbert.
His legacy is the Cherished Vehicle Show which he started 13 years ago. It was a big undertaking and with Ian’s enthusiasm and leadership the club embraced the idea.
It was Ian who chaired that team year after year, passing the baton over only on years when he served as our President.
Ian joined us from the Paddock Wood Lions Club. Energetic and hard working, he will be sadly missed after serving as our President twice and Chair of Fundraising many, many times. He leaves behind Fran, three sons and a gap which will be impossible to fill.
Lion Marilyn Skennerton
District 105sc Almoner
List
Lion Frank Fortey - Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club
Lions John Drago - Westbury Lions Club
Lion Ken Munson - Marlborough and District Lions Club
Mike Hendy - Bracknell Forest Lions Club
Jenny Foan - Loddon Valley Lions Club
Lion Ian Gilbert - Chippenham Lions Club
