Family says last goodbye to Grimsby trawler man Steve Drever by scattering his ashes in dock

A MOVING ceremony saw the ashes of a former chief engineer aboard Grimsby's fishing trawlers scattered in the docks.

Family and friends of Steve Drever gathered on the Queen's Steps, behind the Minesweepers Memorial for the emotional ceremony yesterday.

NOT FORGOTTEN: Steve Drever's friends and family throw roses into the sea after his ashes were scattered on the water during a short service held on the Queen's Steps at Grimsby Docks. Pictures: Chris Vaughan
Steve Drever
EMOTIONAL CEREMONY: Port Missioner Tony Jewitt, left, says a prayer during the service for Steve Drever on the Queen's Steps at Grimsby Docks, behind the Minesweeper Memorial. Second right is Olga Drever, Mr Drever's widow.

Steve, of Waltham, spent his life working on trawlers and asked his family to scatter his ashes in the docks when his time came.

His wife Olga said: "The sea was in his blood.

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"He came from a family of seamen. His brother was a skipper and his father was a chief engineer, too.

"He loved the docks and this is how he would have wanted it to end."

The service was led by Tom Walkley, who served on the committee of the Royal Naval Patrol Service Veterans, Grimsby, with Steve for many years.

His ashes were scattered by eldest daughter Lynne Atkinson, of Immingham, before Olga threw a single red rose into the water.

Those gathered then took a minute's silence to reflect on Steve's life.

Lynne said: "Dad had a great sense of humour and we have all inherited it.

"That is what has kept us going through this difficult time.

"Dad loved collecting hats, so my siblings, our children and some of his great-grandchildren wore them to his funeral."

Born in Kent Street, Grimsby, Steve attended Carr Lane and St John's schools before enrolling at the Nautical College, in Lock Hill.

He met Olga and the couple married at St Luke's Church, in Heneage Road, in 1947 – with the couple celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary just days before he died.

He became chief engineer, working aboard Grimsby's trawlers until the family emigrated to South Africa, where he continued in his role on ships there.

When they returned to North East Lincolnshire in 1990, he worked as an engineer on the standby vessels until his retirement.

Steve, died at Grimsby's Diana, Princess Of Wales Hospital on January 8, aged 83, after suffering from ongoing chest problems.

A celebration of his life was held at Grimsby Crematorium on January 24. Steve and Olga had five children, two of whom have died, and the remainder of Steve's ashes will be scattered with them.