Father Patrick de Wolf

Father Pat was born in Southampton, the eldest son in a family of four. His father was in the army in the 2nd world war and Pat grew up with an interest always in the army and veterans. He had two sisters and a younger brother who also joined the army and was in the Bomb Disposal Unit and was a full colonel In the Royal Ordnance Corp. Pat’s interest in the veterans led to his meeting With Peter Hodge and he came with us to Normandy for the d Day celebrations on 3 occasions.
 On the first occasion whilst staying in a Chateau he met some American parents who had brought their son’s ashes to the Chateau, where they always stayed as he had taken part in D Day with the American Forces.

Fr Pat performed the burial Ceremony for them for which they were so grateful. He also, when we attended Bayeux cemetery, had the privilege of shaking hands with the then Prince of Wales, now our King. Each time he was in Normandy he took part in every celebration and was very proud to do so. He came also to Zutven in Holland.

Where Peter Hodge had organised a large service and parade with help from Dutch friends. Fr Pat was privileged to be co-celebrant in the service with the Dean of Europe who became something of a friend. He also took part in the writing of the departed veterans In the sand at Arromanche and was so moved that he has asked that this service be given to him.

He much enjoyed sharing all celebrations with the Bristol Normandy Veterans and on their return he was made an Honorary Normandy Veterans of which honour he is very proud. He was only allowed to take 2 things for the wall of his care home and one of them, proudly displayed, is his plaque making him An Honorary Bristol Veteran.