Bath Street Marine Table Tennis Club
A Table Tennis England PremierClub

Albert Parker

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The Club and its members were sad to learn, on Wednesday 6 August, of the passing of long time former member, Albert Parker, aged 89.

 

Albert had been a member of the club for many years, and latterly as a regular member and attender at the social table tennis sessions. More recently however, in February 2022, health issues and failing eyesight meant that he and his wife, Doreen, had to leave their home in Maghull to live nearer to family members in Leicester.

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Albert was known as a true gentleman and for his quiet encouragement of others and especially newcomers to the club. He was a popular member of the social scene, especially with the ladies! He was also a very good player and at the age of 79 he was still playing at a decent standard often making the most of his 'funny rubber' hard bat. In September of 2014 he was the runner-up in the Plate event of the Club Tournament only narrowly loosing out to former Club Chairman, and Div 1 player, Fred Bainbridge.

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Indeed, table tennis seemed to be in Albert's blood. So much so, that his love of the sport was passed on to his son Kevin, grandson Michael, and granddaughter Laura. All of whom came to play in table tennis leagues. We understand from grandson Michael that family phone calls always started with "How did you get on this week", often the answer was not what he wanted to hear! His encouragement of others to play table tennis and improve is a theme echoed by several members. Club Treasurer, Ian Brownrigg, recalls "Albert was a lovely man. He always had time for you helping to improve your game and very patient with it!".

 

Albert's granddaughter, Laura, says of his love of table tennis, " with ‘popa’ as he was affectionately known, we all spent many a morning in the summer holidays at the table tennis club. It was where he taught me how to serve properly with my ‘dodgy rubber’ and how to play the most spectacular nets and edges! It was a special place that he thought of fondly and where he spent many happy years."  

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Many tributes to his memory have come in from Club members, and from these you may detect a common theme about the character of the man. Member Keith Dudley says, "a true gentleman and always cheerful", and member Dave Noden similarly, "Such a wonderful gentleman".

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Susie Venner of Maghull TTC says, "​I remember Albie Parker very well, when he used to pick me up in Aintree to take me to practise at English Electric with his son, Kevin, and other local kids. A lovely man, who was always kind and generous with his time. My sincere condolences to his family are sent with very fond memories of a true gentleman".

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Albert was a staunch supporter of the club. He and Doreen were keen supporters of social functions and dab hands on the dance floor! Below there is a small selection of pictures from the club reflecting the participation of this warm hearted, gentleman in the life of the Club. Our sincerest condolences go out to his wife and family.