Tributes to Barry, 82 – a tireless servant of the Mirfield community
A MAN who enjoyed a lifelong connection with uniformed service and with many of Mirfield’s civilian military groups has died aged 82.
Barry Fretwell was born in Mirfield on the Greenside estate and was one of five children - Dorothy, 89, Colin 85, Harry, 80 and Janet, 73.
An RAF National Serviceman, he was President of Mirfield branch of the Royal British Legion, a member of the civilian committee of Mirfield’s 868 Squadron Air Training Corps, and a keen supporter of the Mirfield Parish Cavaliers cricket club.
Barry had been involved for many years in promoting and organising Mirfield’s Remembrance Parade which is now reputed to be one of the largest outside London.
He had been a member since its inception in 2018 of Mirfield’s Armistice & Memorial Committee, and had worked on many projects.
He had been recognised for his service to Mirfield by being one of the inaugural Mirfield Ambassadors in 2010.
During his working life he was an electrician and retired from Kalon paints in Birstall.
Sean Guy, a member of Mirfield Royal British Legion, wrote on Facebook: “It is with immense sadness that we have to announce the death of Mirfield Royal British Legion branch president, Barry Fretwell at home.
“RAF National Service veteran Barry was a stalwart of the Branch and an ardent supporter of 868 squadron Mirfield Air Cadets, serving on their civilian committee and training countless
Standard Bearers. A permanent fixture on the Poppy Appeal stand and more recently part of the Remembrance and Armistice Committee he has been central to Mirfield’s support of veterans and families.
“All of our thoughts and prayers go to his wife Ann and family.”
Mirfield Town Mayor Martyn Bolt said: “Our condolences go to Ann and his family.
“Barry’s service to our town was unceasing and was deservedly recognised when he was an early recipient of the Mirfield Ambassador award.
“And his contribution and support for the preparation ahead of the 75th Anniversary events we would have held for D-Day were much appreciated. May he rest in peace.”
Barry leaves a widow, Ann, and daughter Caroline who lives in Perth, Australia.