Brian Freeman OBE

Brian Freeman (1939 – 2024) was born in Rotterdam, South Holland to Mary Anne and Frederick Lagendyk.  Brian had an older brother Ronnie, and younger brother Cyril.  When Brian was 14, the family moved to England to live in Raynes Park, London.  In 1959 Brian was naturalised as a British subject and the family changed their surname to his mother’s maiden name, Freeman.

Brian first worked for a shipping company before being called up for National Service and posted to Aden.  Upon returning to England, Brian joined the Civil Service, initially with the General Post Office (GPO) before moving to the Ministry of Public Building and Works.  After working in Teesside for the Board of Trade, Brian worked for the Department of Energy gaining expertise in the regulation of the gas and nuclear industries.  He became the UK negotiator for the international nuclear safety convention, for which he was awarded an OBE in 1994.

Brian had many interests, including cars, especially Saabs, wildlife, photography, he was a member of Kingston Camera Club and around the home, he had impressive DIY and gardening skills.  He was keen on theatre, visiting museums and fine dining.  After retirement, he volunteered at the Rose Theatre, Kingston, where he was an usher and took responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance of the building.  Brian played a pivotal role as one of the Hinchley Wood residents successfully preventing McDonalds from taking over a redundant pub.

Brian married Lesley in April 1966 and after living near the North Yorkshire Moors, they moved south to live in Surrey.  Brian was a loving uncle to Steven and Julia and his great-nephews and nieces, Jacob, Emily, Maddie and Theo.