Obituary: Howard Grew (1984)

Obituary from the September 1984 issue of the Socialist Standard

Members and friends will be extremely sorry to learn of the death of Howard Grew on 16 July. He and Helen his wife joined the Party in 1947 and 1949 and were very active members for many years.

Howard did long stints for Birmingham Branch as Secretary and Literature Secretary; and he was an active propagandist, particularly on the outdoor platform in the Bull Ring. His smart appearance, in a suit with a collar and tie and often a flower in his button hole, made nonsense of the idea that all workers wear overalls. As a local government officer and an energetic member of his local branch of NALGO he was well fitted to explain their class position to his fellow workers. His sense of humour and his powerful voice carried socialist ideas to them in a way that they could not ignore.

Eight years ago, just before he retired. Howard became critically ill. When he eventually did recover he had to adopt a much less active life. Instead of joining the re-formed Birmingham Branch, they both remained Central Branch members. We extend to Helen at this painful time our sympathy and our comradeship.

Ron Cook