Alex Vella writes:
Tributes flow freely on those who pass away. More so when they are gifted with all that is pleasant in a person’s character.
Wilfred Pillow fits perfectly in this frame. Endowed with all the endearing qualities of a family man, a friend and a pleasant acquaintance to many who knew him, the grand old man of St Julian’s left a void in this locality and its vicinity that will never be filled.
Although a nonagenerian, Wilfred radiated a youthful exuberance which was as remarkable as it was pleasant for those who shared his everyday experiences. His sense of humour belied his age.
He used to recount his youthful days in Sliema and his army experiences with pride. He had an astonishing memory when recalling innumerable episodes in his life.
A staunch Manchester United supporter, he was up to date with the team’s latest results and never shunned occasions to vent these feelings. Wilfred was a dedicated family man, with his late wife, Joyce, two sons, Jose and Andy and their respective spouses, Lilian and Nathalie, as well as his niece Patricia Cassar and nephew Nicky Pillow, whom he affectionately cared for as a second father for 40 years, being the epicentre of his life. So were his many relatives.
In his latter years he widened his circle of friends whom he met everyday at a prominent St Julian’s cafeteria and in summer at the Neptunes Waterpolo Club as well as during walks along the Sliema promenade in the evenings.
They say the good die young. Although he went to meet his Creator at a ripe age of 92, and that was a concession to many who knew him, including myself, he was indeed young at heart.
Wilfred’s memory will prevail. May he rest in peace.