I want to take this space on this day and pay special tribute to a dear cousin, close friend and wonderful human being who has passed away after a battle with cancer.

Howard Attfield won't be a name that means anything to the vast majority of people. But Howard Attfield's personality and talents as an actor touched thousands of people in his 60 years on this earth.

He had a character actor's face and character acting was his specialty. Howard appeared in numerous British television series, a number of which have appeared in North America like Darling Buds of May and Dr. Who. He made his share of schlock and he wasn't averse to saying so. But, as he said, it paid the bills.

He spent three years on stage in the West End of London, the place where British actors long to perform, in a musical penned by Barry Manilow called Copacabana. Naturally, Howard played the comic relief.

He was the quintessential British actor: he could sing and dance; he did radio plays, TV dramas, stage and film and, of course, that mainstay of actors the world over, TV commercials - some of the funniest I have witnessed.

In August 2006, Howard and his wife Jill attended our wedding. During the reception and while the MC was looking through his notes, Howard rose to his feet and in his stage-trained baritone proceeded to introduce himself and his wife to the other guests and then offer a toast. His entire extemporaneous address lasted some 6 or 7 minutes and had every guest with tears streaming down their faces.

He did it all from a few scribbled words on the back of an envelope. That was his talent.

But he wasn't always larger than life. Howard, more than anyone, knew that he put his pants on one leg at a time just like everyone else. Never did he show off or look down at another person.

He had a love of Jaguars and rugby, came from a humble English background, worked hard and was a loving husband, father and brother.

In his final hours, he was surrounded by his sons and daughters, nieces and nephews, his grandchildren and his sister at his beautiful home in Dorking, Surrey. Apparently, he opened one eye and muttered,"I'm trying to work out if any of you owe me money".

During his life well-lived, he caused many people to laugh a great deal. I am blessed to have known him and loved him. And I do surely miss him.