Eric John Yeomans days short of 79, after clinging hard to an ever more difficult life and winning some battles along the way, went quickly in the end, having been in his own home until his final hours.

Beryl Frances Carstairs days past turning 81, after battling a bit more than I had previously heard about, almost welcomed the final diagnosis and had no wish to fight it being the shorter end of the prognosis.

They each lived their lives pretty much as they chose, mostly alone save for their cats and leaving no direct dependents, but very well supported by their respective circles of friends who clearly admire the social impact that each made.

And, no, I don't think they would have been better for having known each other.

A couple of weeks down the coast is looking even more attractive.