Nov 19 2007 A moving funeral
I marvelled at the courage of a friend today.
I went with colleagues to the funeral of Angela Shakeshaft, wife pf Echo photographic legend Steve.
Angela, a fine reporter for the Post and Echo and fgor the Daily Mail, died a week gone Sunday after a gallant fight against illness.
The service was held this morning. The stone walls of the beautiful Norman church at Halsall gave protection from the bitter wind that sewpt West Lancs, but afforded little warmth to the mourners.
The warmth though was there.. Generated by Steve and his four children who spoke from the front of the church about the wife and mother they worshipped.
Steve spoke last. I will admire him forever for the way he managed to hold it together. He is an emotional man and Angela was the most important thing in his life for 40 years.
He spoke of his 'luck' at having had those 40 years. And he spoke of the legacy of love she leaves him through his children. His voice cracked on occasion but the power of his devotion overcame the tremor of his sadness.
In similar circumstances I would wish to be as brave. Even half as brave, would, I think, be beoyond me.
