Published: January 27, 2012

RETIRED master carpenter William Milne put the tools away after helping a neighbour out and relaxed on his bed to listen to his favourite Neil Diamond tracks.

The popular 69-year-old bachelor fell asleep at his flat in Tremlett Grove, Archway, and never awoke. Just hours before he died from a heart attack he talked to drinking pals at his Kentish Town Road local, O’Reilly’s, about sending seasonal cheques to his loved ones and charities. He also said that his desire was to leave this world in his sleep.

Bill lived at the same address for 30 years after arriving in London from his home in Aberdeen with a fistful of awards, certificates and recommendations for his woodworking and allied skills.

He was employed on major construction projects all over the UK and abroad and was known as “Aberdeen Angus” by his bosses and mates.

They joined with family members, including devoted sisters Kathleen and Dorothy, and many from Aberdeen to pay a fond farewell to Bill at Golders Green Crematorium earlier this month and then at O’Reilly’s, where they swapped stories of his 40 years in London, retiring at 67 as foreman and site agent for a major contractor.

“He was a terrific chippie and helped to build hotels at Aviemore ski resort in the Cairngorms before moving south. Once he had established himself in London, the heart of gold he often kept hidden began to shine through,” said a fellow tradesman.

He sent regular cheques to help out his widowed mum and close family, looked after friends in need with cash handouts and help in finding work and accommodation, supported Big Issue campaigns and cared almost daily for a former work colleague suffering from severe disabilities. A school for children with learning difficulties was also close to his generosity.

As a youngster he enjoyed football and golf and proudly put his apprenticeship to good use by building a porch for his house, to the delight of his mother. It still stands today.

Born on February 13, he chose it as his lucky number, mourners were reminded by brother-in-law Doug Ross at the service, conducted by the Rev Bert Baker.

“To say he enjoyed a few pints and a ‘wee dram or three’ would be an understatement. He was well know and respected in the local watering holes and was always the complete gentleman,” his friend added.

Fittingly, Bill entered and departed the chapel to the voice of Neil Diamond, the songs he heard as he slipped away on December 16.
DAVID ST GEORGE