Hey folks! Today, I want to share with you the incredible life of Mike Cranidge, the legendary president of Bashley Football Club. But let me tell you, Mike was much more than just a football enthusiast. He had a passion for cricket, allotments, and maps. Sadly, he passed away at the age of 84 in September after a brave battle with prostate cancer. Let’s dive into the remarkable journey of this extraordinary man.
Born in Bournemouth in May 1939, Mike’s life revolved around his career in the map industry. Can you believe he started working in maps when he was just 16? Talk about dedication! He attended East Howe Junior School, where he played cricket and became known as a specialist gully fielder. After passing his 11-plus, Mike went on to Bournemouth Grammar School, where he excelled in map reading and geography. He joined Ordnance Survey in 1955 and trained as a cartographic surveyor.
Now, let me tell you about a little interruption in Mike’s map-filled life. He had to serve in the National Service, but that didn’t stop him from pursuing his passion. After completing his service, he continued his journey with the Ordnance Survey. Mike worked his way up from surveyor to sales and marketing, even becoming a director of the International Map Trade Association in the ’90s. He played a crucial role in creating its European division. Talk about making an impact!
After several office stints on the south coast, Mike settled in Sway, where he became an active member of the Sway allotments for over 40 years. He served on the committee and nurtured his love for gardening. Now, let’s talk about love. Mike met his first wife, Anne, in 1962, and they tied the knot a year later. They were blessed with two children, Neil and Emma. However, life took a turn, and Mike and Anne divorced in the mid-80s.
But wait, there’s more! Mike found love again and married Sue in 1989. They made their home in Barton, along with Sue’s two children, Alex and Lucy. Sue even became Mike’s office manager until he retired from the Ordnance Survey at the age of 60 in 1999. Retirement didn’t slow him down, though. He continued to be involved in the map industry, organizing conferences and trade shows until 2004. What a go-getter!
Tragedy struck when Sue’s daughter, Lucy, was diagnosed with a brain tumour at the young age of 18. She sadly passed away on New Year’s Eve 2000 at Oakhaven Hospice. Mike and Sue became passionate advocates and fundraisers for Oakhaven, a cause close to their hearts. Sue herself was later diagnosed with cancer and received care at Oakhaven before her passing in April 2011. Mike’s world was shattered, but he remained devoted to his family and football, keeping Sue’s memory alive.
Now, let’s talk about Mike’s love for Bashley Football Club. He was a massive supporter and dedicated himself to the club in every way possible. He even drove the supporters’ coach to matches! His funeral, held at New Forest Crematorium on October 12th, was a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable man. Tributes were delivered by Bashley chair Paul Lucas, family friend Bill Hunt, who flew in all the way from California, and Mike’s sons, Alex and Neil. The wake took place at Bashley FC’s GlenMex stadium, where produce donated by Sway allotments was displayed.
In memory of Mike, donations can be made to Prostate Cancer UK through Colin Hayley & Tapper Funeral Service or online at www.tapperfuneralservice.co.uk. Let’s remember Mike Cranidge, a true legend of Bashley Football Club and a man who touched the lives of many. May he rest in peace.