Today we gather to honour and remember the remarkable life of Alvin Mullin. As we stand here in solemn reflection, we are reminded of the profound impact Alvin had on each of our lives. Though they may no longer be with us in the physical realm, their spirit, kindness, and enduring legacy will continue to resonate in our hearts forever.
Alvin was born on the 24th May 1944 in Intake, to George and Doris. His arrival marked an upturn in fortunes in the life of his parents, at the same time as a change in the outlook at the war, with D-day happening just a few weeks later. This shared hope and optimism continued throughout Alvin’s early life, where he enjoyed a happy childhood as George and Doris’ only child.
Alvin’s first job was as a decorator. Although he didn’t last too long in this role as he found out quite quickly that he really didn’t like heights. Alvin then found himself a job a Batley’s butchers. A job that he revelled in and was the local butcher for over 25 years. His long service was rewarded with a clock, but unfortunately due to ill health he had to retire in his late 40’s.
Alvin found love when he was 35 when he met Julie. Their relationship blossomed and they married at Tickhill Church on the 26th July 1980. They settled at Wivelsfield Road, Balby, it was here where their family grew as Helen arrived first, and when Phil arrived the family was complete. Julie was definitely the boss of the house and was not only looking after 2 children, but she had to Mother Alvin too. She would give him a list of jobs to do while she went to work. As he ticked off the jobs, he wanted to be appreciated for doing them. Rather than just getting on with what needed to be done. He would very rarely do anything without being told. When Julie sadly passed in May 2013 Alvin stepped up to the role of providing childcare for Helen’s children when required, especially Rubin. Although it could be said that Rubin looked after his Pa. He dearly loved him and Gates, Helen’s youngest, who will both miss their Pa. With no more lists to follow, Alvin would often be grumpy about having think about what he was having for his tea. Thankfully his love of Marks and Spencer’s food would often see him through. Especially the shortbread which he would have as a treat.
Family summer holidays were mainly spent on the east coast. Staying in Scarborough, going on the penny slots, going to the Harbour bar, the beach, and day trips to Goathland and Whitby. They were wonderful times. In the other holidays they would visit Julie’s Aunties in Whitley Bay and Shildon. On one occasion when they were getting on the Metro on a busy bank holiday, Julie rushed the kids onto the train knowing how the doors would quickly close. Alvin did not move so quick and was left behind. Julie was very annoyed to say the least. When they arrived at the next station she quickly jumped off and rushed around to the other platform to go back for him, only for Alvin to turn up on the next train laughing away. Julie was not laughing.
These kinds of things always seemed to happen to Alvin. It must have picked it up from his love of the old classic TV and films. He loved to watch Only Fools and Horses, Fawlty Tower, and rewatch Carry On films and Norman Wisdom on the Movies 24 and Christmas channels. If only he had been more like his other favourite film star James Bond. His love of slapstick humour would become a highlights reel for those who knew him.
There was the time Helen had to ring her uncle to take Alvin because he sliced his hand on a tin on Christmas day. The time he shattered the glass on the range oven because he had forgotten to lift the lid when he put the hob on to warm up some soup. On two separate occasions in the old house, he decided that he could clear the hot ashes out of the fire with a plastic shovel, on the first occasion it fell on to the brand-new laminate flooring. Once again Julie was not best pleased. Whatever Alvin did, you knew it wouldn’t be long until he did something funny.
When Alvin moved next door to Helen in March 2019, he liked to venture into town for a walk around. It also gave him the opportunity to check in on his mate Trigger, the boxer dog. He would enjoy going round and looking after him. Helen’s previous boxer, Bolo, was his favourite though, and you could regularly find them snuggled up having and afternoon nap together. When Alvin wasn’t doing this, he would be off to watch Doncaster Rovers with Phil. He had a season ticket for a while, and would follow them to away games as well. He wasn’t that good at remembering the players’ names, well apart from James Coppinger, but that doesn’t really count being a club legend, and Grant McCann who he loved from his first time as manager. You could always tell if Donny had lost as Alvin would not talk to anyone. He would’ve been quiet a lot recently, but we’ll not go into that.
As we bid farewell to Alvin, let us carry forward the laughter he brought into our lives, the warmth of his love, and the lessons learned from his humorous mishaps. Though he may have departed this world, his memory remains etched in our hearts and minds. Let us find solace in the cherished moments we shared with him and draw strength from the legacy of joy and resilience he leaves behind. As we continue life’s journey without his physical presence, may we honour Alvin’s spirit by embracing each day with the same humour, love, and unwavering determination that defined his remarkable life. Rest peacefully, dear Alvin, knowing that your laughter will echo through our memories for all eternity.
Funeral service was conducted at Barnby Moor Crematorium at 1:00pm on 10th April 2024.
Chris Platts - Professional Celebrant 