To a West Yorkshire Warrior
I am heartbroken to learn of Wilson "Bill' Hargreaves passing, never since my own Grandad's passing, Germany 45', have I wept so hard.
I met Bill at the age of 19 on a trip to France for the 60th anniversary of D-Day. I was reading Stephen Ambrose's book on the subject while drawing in my sketchbook scenes of D-day to pass the long journey to Dover from Northern England.
It was during this journey a kind gentleman and his wife sitting behind me and my Mam took interest in my studies/sketching. This man was Bill Hargreaves, Medic of the 6th Airborne Div.
We became firm friends, and Bill/Wilson sent me items he collected in the War when we returned home. I contacted him again in 2016 and sent him a card for his 91st birthday.
I never heard back sadly, and with wet eyes I am so saddened to see this lovely man pass away, and I want to talk to his next of kin if possible, search for me on Facebook; Nicholas Simpson, Sunderland.
I attach a photo of myself, age 19 and Bill/Wilson at Calais, 2004.
Nicholas Simpson
22/07/2018
