We are saddened to report the passing of Haddenham resident, Tony Pickup, who passed away peacefully on 9th November, after a hard fought battle with colon cancer.
Tony was perhaps best known to residents as a keen coach and supporter of youth football, having managed both Haddenham and Thame-based teams.
Andrew Marshman, a close friend, said of Tony: "he was always so welcoming, laid back and focused on all the boys having the best football day ever. Tony always encouraged all the parents to cheer and be a positive influence on the boys playing football. He really did embody what it should be to be a Youth Football coach – enjoyment, fun, positivity and a readiness always to shake hands and say 'well done' whether win or lose."
Tony was also a member of a popular music appreciation group in Haddenham, at which his passion for the music and poetry of Bob Dylan was frequently expressed in the pieces he chose to highlight. This became almost a running joke among the group attendees, given the near obsession that Tony had for this particular artist, and he always took the teasing in very good spirit.
Tony was a committed Christian and an active member of St Mary's Church in Haddenham where, in his latter months, he demonstrated his unwaivering faith and resiliance in the face of his illness.
He leaves a wife, Elaine, and two sons, Samuel and Jonathan.
A service of thanksgiving for Tony is being held at St Mary's Church on Thursday 28th November 2024 at 12:30pm
All are welcome to join the family for the service, and afterwards to share refreshments, stories and fond memories of Tony at Bradmoor Farm.
If you will be joining the family at Bradmoor farm, please let Elaine know via email, elaine_pickup@hotmail.com, so that she has an indication of numbers for catering purposes.
