Former naval colleagues, family and friends will turn out in force this week to bid farewell to a stalwart of the HMS Jupiter Association.
HMS Jupiter was launched in 1967 and became Middlesbrough’s adopted warship in 1975.
The Clyde-built Leander Class Frigate saw service around the globe and made her last visit to her adopted town in April, 1992 before being decommissioned later that year.
The HMS Jupiter Association celebrates the ship’s ties to the town with annual reunions, with next year marking its 50th anniversary.
With happy memories of his service in the ship, His Majesty King Charles has recently renewed his Patronage of the Association.
One regular attendee was local lad Michael ‘Jock’ O’Neil who recently passed away following a three-year stint as Association Chairman.
His funeral will be held at Teesside Crematorium on Friday (October 11), attended by Standard Bearers from the HMS Jupiter Association, the Royal Naval Association and the Royal British Legion.
HMS Jupiter Association Secretary Ken Williams, who was on board from 1977 to 1985, said: “Jock O’Neil was a very valued member of the HMS Jupiter Association and for the last three years was our Chairman.
“He was very supportive of the Sea Cadets and a great character who enjoyed life to the full.
“He along with his wife Susan were a wonderful couple who attended many Association reunions, and he will be greatly missed.”
Petty Officer Tracey Williams, of Middlesbrough Sea Cadets, said: “I was introduced to Mick through his association with HMS Jupiter.
“He was a true gentleman and a great supporter of Middlesbrough Sea Cadets and Royal Marine Cadets.
“Mick was able to provide us with raffle prizes for much-needed fundraising and would always pop by to say hello when we were out in parade.
“He will be missed.”
The funeral will take place at St Bede’s Chapel at Teesside Crematorium at 2pm on Friday October 11 followed by a wake at Middlesbrough Golf Club, on Brass Castle Lane.
For more information on HMS Jupiter and the work of the Association, visit its website by clicking here.
Anyone interested in attending next year’s HMS Jupiter Association 50th anniversary Reunion event is asked to contact Secretary Ken Williams on 07941 363931 or email by clicking here.