I first met David when he came to Stevenage as part of his biochemistry degree work experience. I had my first job after my biochemistry studies and he ended up lodging/living in a house I had just bought in Hitchin. Renovations were the order of the day and we managed to live without heating for most of the winter of 1984/85! My parents were from Carlisle and we had separate but similar memories of holidays on the Solway Firth, fishing, Silloth slots, Allonby, Longcakes ice-cream... we hit it off and became good friends. We both ended up living around London and in October 1988 we had some holiday and decided to fly to Athens and spent a week in Paros. We had a great time and this was the holiday I met my wife Pirin and I moved to Switzerland in July 1990. Of course David had to be best man! It was difficult to stay close over the last 30 years, living quite separate lives, but we would always meet when we had a chance during trips to the UK and we had all those common memories that we could draw on. David’s approach to life, sense of humour, and love for Claire, Alex, Oscar and Jasmin were infectious. It was great to have David and Claire over to visit in 2019 and we have been continuing the typical Sharpe banter and exchange of jokes throughout lockdown and up to David’s recent birthday. Pirin and I will miss David forever and he will always be in our hearts. He really led a life worth celebrating, and as The Smiths sang “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out” and that is how I will remember you. We are so sorry we cannot be there for you and with you tomorrow. Love Ian, Pirin, Marc and Alan xxxx
Ian
2nd December 2021
We have had the good fortune of being neighbours with David, Claire, Alex, Oscar and Jasmin for the last 25 years.
From drinks parties to Vicar of Dibley moments at Wonersh Park AGMs; from the helping hands and friendly waves to the laughs and priceless banter - we miss you David. Sarah, Ben, Anna and Emily xx
Sarah
2nd December 2021
David has been my boss for 26 years and therefore I got to know him quite well! He has taught me so much - one thing he told me was not to panic; sit back and think about things before reacting and it really helped (I have looked after quality and complaints for the past 17 years). His sense of humour has stood out in many a sticky situation! He will be greatly missed and I send my sincerest condolences to his lovely, courageous family, Claire Yeates xx
Claire
2nd December 2021