Farewell to much-loved Sycamores ResidentColleagues and Residents at the Sycamores residential and residential memory care home, in Manchester, have had some bad news recently as long-term Resident Henry Bartram, sadly passed away in December. Whilst this news affected everyone, Colleagues would like to remember the good times they shared with him. 

Harry came and joined the Sycamores on 17th December 2007. Henry, whose preferred name was Harry, was born at his parents’ home in Joel Lane, Gee Cross, in May 1916; and it was a very different era from today! 

When Harry was 6, his family borrowed £5 to pay for his tonsils to be removed, the doctor did this at Harry’s home. At about this time, a doctor told his mother “Don’t expect him to make old bones!” But Harry got to the amazing age of 105!

Colleagues at the Sycamores described Harry as a simple man; he was very straight forward, uncomplicated and made his wishes known. His family said Harry loved a natter, more so if it was about nice cars, good shoes and decent record players! 

Harry started work at 14 but was only allowed to become a builder when his uncle George decided that his hands were big enough to hold a brick. 

Harry joined the army in the early stages of the second world war but, to his disappointment, he was needed more as a builder. He worked in refractory linings and was therefore in a reserved occupation. 

Later on, Harry worked at Trafford Park, where he was rebuilding the wrecked industrial building which were vital to the war effort. 

He met his wife Lily (both pictured top left) when he was 21 and she was 17. They married at Hyde chapel in 1941 and enjoyed over 65 years of marriage together.  Harry and Lily had two daughters, Wendy and Lynne, and Harry often spoke about the importance of family and how he was so very proud of his two daughters, his sons-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Natasha Travis, Wellbeing Coordinator, commented, “Harry was a much respected and loved resident of the Sycamore family, he will Sorley missed by all the team this story shows how much he was valued and does credit to his legacy.