It was with great sadness that we learnt that our dear Brother Harry Thomas Winter, Past Provincial Grand Senior Warden, passed away peacefully on the morning of the 28th of February, aged 103.
A Truly Remarkable Life
Harry lived a truly remarkable life. During the Second World War he served as a Wireless Operator/Air Gunner with 431 and 427 Squadrons, flying Halifax bombers.
On the night of 22nd/23rd of October 1943, while on operations to Kassel, his aircraft was shot down over Hameln. Four members of his crew were tragically killed, and Harry himself sustained serious injuries to both legs. He survived and became a prisoner of war, avoiding summary execution only through the intervention of a German Army Medical Officer.
In January 1945, Harry was forced onto the infamous Long March, enduring six weeks in bitter winter conditions, during which time he lost almost two stone in weight.
A Dedicated Freemason
Harry was a deeply dedicated Freemason, being a member of three Mark and three Royal Ark Mariner Lodges. Remarkably, he continued to practise ritual at the James Terry Court Lodge of Instruction right up to the very end, a testament to his commitment, sharpness of mind, and love for Freemasonry.
At last year’s Craft Annual Meeting, W.Bro. Norman Jones had the honour of wheeling W.Bro. Harry into the Temple to the sound of the Dam Busters March. For those of us who were there it was a very moving experience to see Harry enter the Grand Temple to a standing ovation and be received by the Provincial Grand Master, R.W.Bro. Nick Burger.
Harry’s last major time with us was at the Provincial Cathedral Service, kindly arranged by Bro. Steve Traynor of Richmond Mark Lodge.
Remembered with Love
W.Bro. Harry was one of the last of those who gave so much that we can be free. We owe him and his colleagues so much.
Despite all he experienced, Harry remained a kind, dignified, and much-loved Brother, and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him. His courage, resilience, and quiet humility will not be forgotten.
Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences are with Harry’s family, friends, and all who mourn his passing.