Centenarian Bob King served the diocese throughout the 1980s
Bob King was chair of the Lichfield Diocese Board of Finance throughout the 1980s, stepping down to avoid a conflict of interest when a colleague at Manby and Steward, John Thorneycroft, was appointed as Diocesan Registrar.
Mr King celebrated his 100th birthday at the care home where he was resident in Wolverhampton two months ago. Celebrations included a visit from members of the Mercian Regiment, successor to the Worcestershire Regiment in which he'd served in during the Second World War. His son, Peter, was later organist and master of choristers at Lichfield Cathedral.
He was an extraordinary man and was determined to achieve his 100th birthday according to Diocesan Archivist, Mithra Tonking whose husband, Simon, had been a Lichfield chorister alongside Peter.
Bob also wrote a book of memoirs in 2016 called 'We were the lucky ones' which included fascinating insights into his long and extraordinary life, especially the war years.
Further coverage and funeral details (Wednesday 1 June,12.30 at St Michael and All Angels Tettenhall) from our local newpapers.