Bernard 'Bern' Male, a former mayor of Royal Wootton Bassett, passed away peacefully a few days before his ninetieth birthday, at Savernake Hospital, after some months of failing health.

He was the loving husband of Phyllis (Phyl), father of Christine and Philip, and was blessed with four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Bern contributed much during his years as a Town Councillor, and was Mayor in 1993-1994. His Mayoral year was particularly notable for official ceremonies that formalised the link between RAF Lyneham and the town of WoottonBassett, acknowledging the two communities' mutual regard, service and friendship.

Many people shared in celebrating Bern's life at his funeral at the Methodist Church in Royal Wootton Bassett on October 14. Prior to committal at North Wiltshire Crematorium.

Bern and his wife, who came to the town from Somerset many years ago, were enthusiastic co-leaders of a church youth club, based for some years at the Methodist Church, where Bern was a communion steward. In the wider community he was closely involved in the Wilts & Berks Canal Conservation Group, which he assisted in many ways, for as long as his health allowed. Having worked initially in the railway industry, he then moved to other companies.

Bern is remembered as a caring, gentle, loving person, who always had time for others and was willing to offer his help wherever it was needed. He loved gardening, especially his cacti, and devoted much effort to maintaining a large garden behind the family home.

Bern contributed in so many ways, through his marriage, family, church and community life, and he is remembered gratefully.

Memorial donations, for Parkinson's UK and Friends of Savernake Hospital , may be sent c/o Dianne Mackinder Funeral Service, in Marlborough .