The funeral of a World War II veteran will take place in Marlow next week.

Wing Commander Bernard Lax died on Monday, February 17 after he broke several ribs following a fall.

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One of Bernard’s friends, David G. Bloor told the Free Press: “I have known Bernard for several years through my work for him and latterly his family.

“He was one of England’s last gentlemen in every sense of the word.

“There are not many men throughout my life that I have looked up to and had respect for.

Bucks Free Press:

Bernard Lax

“With Bernard, I greatly admired him and had the utmost respect for the service he gave his country.

“If I had known him as a young boy, I think he would have become one of my heroes.”

Bernard was a Royal Air Force pilot from the Second World War, where he visited several Asian countries such as Singapore and Malaysia.

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He also spent some time in Australia before living in the Netherlands.

The funeral will be at the United Reform Church in Marlow on Wednesday, March 4 at 1.30pm.

David added: “You will be sadly missed and leave a great void in many peoples’ lives.

“My condolences to Elspeth his daughter and family.

“R.I.P”

Following Bernard’s death, donations can be made to the charity, PiXiE which was founded by his daughter, Elspeth.

The charity helps those with PXE (pseudoxanthoma elasticum), which is a genetic disease that affects the skin and eyes.

The charity was formed in January 1984 and was the first PXE support group in the world.