CHARLIE Cowley, of High Barns, Ely, died at Addenbrooke s Hospital in Cambridge on February 6. He was aged 81. He was born at 51 Forehill in Ely and worked as an agricultural engineer for Standen s for 45 years, and was very well-known in the local farmin

CHARLIE Cowley, of High Barns, Ely, died at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge on February 6. He was aged 81.

He was born at 51 Forehill in Ely and worked as an agricultural engineer for Standen's for 45 years, and was very well-known in the local farming community.

During the last war, he served on aircraft maintenance in India, from 1943 to 1945.

His main hobby was his 1942 vintage Indian 741B motorcycle which he exhibited at many local shows and rallies. He was a member of the Indian plus vintage motorcycle club. Charlie was also a keen gardener and mechanic and also enjoyed mending and collecting wall clocks. He was also a member of the Royal British Legion.

He married Gwendoline on January 17, 1948. They had four sons, Richard, of Ely, Douglas, who died in 1966, Ralph of Guyhirn and David of Ely. He is also survived by his nine grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

The funeral took place on

February 19 at St Mary's Church, Ely, and was led by the Rev Fred Kilner.