Friends and family of Mark Urwin, who had passionately grown potatoes in his allotment for 25 years, paid tribute to him with a basket of his own spuds
A Walthamstow local has been honoured with a uniquely personal celebration of his life – complete with a basket of home-grown potatoes.
Musician Mark Unwin, 76, had lived in Walthamstow since 1986. A regular at open mic nights, he became known for his witty, self-penned songs about local life, including his cult favourite “Demography of Walthamstow”.
A devoted allotment owner, Mark’s patch was his pride and joy for 25 years, and potatoes were his greatest passion – making the decision to swap traditional floral tributes for a basket of his own spuds a perfectly fitting touch. On the day of his final farewell, Mark’s well-worn allotment hat and a single red rose sat alongside them.
The service was filled entirely with Mark’s own music, with three original tracks and a video of him performing at his allotment, capturing his humour and creativity. Guests were invited to wear whatever they felt comfortable in, a nod to Mark’s colourful personality.
The service ended with a line from one of Mark’s songs, encouraging him to “Sashay away in Weymouth Bay”.
Jacqueline Shannon, funeral director at Co-op Funeralcare Walthamstow, said: “Mark’s service was incredibly joyful and personal. Every detail reflected his personality – from the potatoes and allotment hat to the music he wrote himself.
“It was a true celebration of Mark and how much he meant to the Walthamstow community, and we were delighted to assist his family in ensuring his final farewell was true to who he was.”
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