Many thanks to Ian for sharing this sad news. Our thoughts are with Buster’s family and friends. In his own words. Ed
Buster Bartlett dies age 99 years and four months old.
He leaves behind his only child a daughter Hazel Ridley and two grandsons and four great grandchildren the latest being born last Friday 1st June in Cardiff, we think he understood our messages to him this week-end in hospital about the families latest addition.
Dedicated character
I think it is fair to say he was one of the genuine hard working/dedicated characters in local council work for over 30 years up to about six or seven years ago when he was voted off the Isle of Wight County Council.
He was able to live independently until last March when he fell and broke a hip, since then he became totally reliant on us caring for him 24/7, then Monday of last week he suffered a stroke that left him speechless and unable to move etc.
Then on Tuesday 5th June at about 3.30pm he went to sleep peacefully for the last time.
Fascinating history
Buster occupied many newspaper columns in his ‘heyday’ on the Council, especially on his beloved ‘IOW airport’ drum that he beat relentlessly for over 20 years sadly to no avail. I know he was affectionately regarded by many including his council adversaries (Not all) as a open honest speaking Independent councillor.
He was always Independent, as he only ever believed one should do the right things for the electorate not what a party line advices upon.
He gave 200% to any matter needing his attention, be it an old lady’s tap washer leaking or major planning decisions. He fervently believed in doing what was best for all irrespective of your political persuasion.
Motorcyclist, violinist and Grand Master
In his past he was a Gold Star medal winner in 1937 doing over a 100mph around the famous Brooklands race track in Weybridge, Surrey.
His helmet, belts and other memorabilia being exhibited in their motor cycling museum, he was also an accomplished violinist and a Grand Master of London Masonic Lodges until moving here.
He was born and brought up in and around Tottenham, London and spent his working life as in the early years a tool maker, then work study engineer leading onto a production manager in the Main Gas section of the Thorn Group in London.
Details of Buster’s funeral will be published in due course.
