It is with great sorrow that I received the news that a great friend and colleague had passed away after a lifetime that was dedicated to Malta’s wartime and peacetime army and, in his retirement, to the George Cross Island Association.

He had been unwell for some time and, regretfully, owing to my own immobility, I was unable to attend his funeral.

Antoine Pace Bonello was the founder chairman of the Malta branch of the GCIA, way back in the 1980s, and asked me to take over as branch secretary.

Under his leadership, the branch grew and it was one of our members, the late Paul Pullicino, who came up with the idea of a memorial as a reminder of Maltese and allies, military and civilian personnel, who gave their lives during the 1940-43 siege. The result was 1940-43 Siege Bell below the Lower Barrakka in Valleta.

Antoine and I took holidays together every year with our respective partners to many European countries.

We were brothers more than friends. Unfortunately, for the past two years, we were only able to keep in touch by telephone but, still, our friendship remained.

One of Antoine’s greatest gifts was his attention to detail, especially in the organisation of the annual visits of the UK members for the celebration of the award of the George Cross to Malta, held on April 15 each year at the Bell Monument. He insisted on rehearsals which resulted in the smooth running of all the events.

Yet, he was also a most modest gentleman, so much so that when he was nominated national chairman he insisted that I stood instead of him.

Antoine is at rest in the arms of the Lord and, much as I would have wished to be at his funeral, all I can do is send my deepest condolences to his family and pray for his repose.

Antoine will be remembered by many but will be missed by many more.

Rest in peace dear friend.