Funeral of 108-year-old Wirral 'legend' Tom Peers

A service celebrating Tom Peers' life will be held at Landican tomorrow (Wednesday) at 9am. All are welcome to attend.  

Born in Birkenhead in 1913, he was described by granddaughter Jess Clarke as a 'living legend' - an incredible man who lived through two world wars.

Tom, aged two, in 1915. Picture supplied by granddaughter Jess Clarke

The father of three, grandfather of seven and great-grand of five was a butcher at the Co-op for 50 years. He travelled the Middle East as a chef in World War II.

He has spent his whole life in Wirral and was described as the strong figurehead of a loving and ever-growing family.

He passed away at Riversdale Care Home in West Kirby on December 2.

His London-based granddaughter Jess Clark told the Globe this afternoon: "Tomorrow's service will be, very much, a celebration of Tom's life.

"He takes his well-earned rest after a surreal 108 year innings. I was told that he was the second oldest man in the UK. 

"He was doing really well in himself, albeit very fed up of the extended lockdown he’d faced in his nursing home these past couple of years. But he was much-loved by staff and fellow residents."

Tom, aged around 11, 1924. Picture courtesy of Jess Clarke

Jess continued: "He'd just had a visit from his good friend that lunch time and was chatty with a spark in his eye before closing his eyes in his chair later that afternoon, for good.

"He was a remarkable man, seeing off two pandemics and two world wars and of course living a very fulfilled life in between these times.

Tom, in summer 2019, aged 106, with his two sons. Picture courtesy of Jess Clarke

Jess added: "So many lovely memories of his life have flooded in from friends and family which are special to hear.

"He was very loved, so hearts are heavy but full of happiness for the life he lived and for those of us who got to share it with him.

Our thoughts are with Tom's family at this sad time.