Death of Lister

[trw99]

It is with regret that I note the passing of Mick Gilkes, who posted on here as MickG, late last year.

I have only just found out about Mick's death from his widow. I rang to speak with him and got the sad news that he had a heart attack which proved fatal. He lived not too far from me and would visit occasionally in his Sprint. He also attended some of the Sprint Drive-Outs I organise. Mick had been an electrical engineer and, when he retired in 2011 he decided to buy an Elan to restore and keep him busy. During the 1970s he'd run an Elan and later a Plus 2 as daily drivers. He always hankered after another and his retirement gave him the spur to buy a 1971 DHC Sprint.

Mick lavished a good deal of time, energy and expertise on his Sprint and we chatted often on the 'phone during his work on it. I suspect that disappearing into his garage each morning helped him to make the transition from frantic work life to the relaxed retirement lifestyle. He completed his restoration rapidly and ended up with a very nicely restored car which he used and enjoyed often. Last time I spoke with him he was about to pull the gearbox, investigate a synchro problem and change the clutch.

Mick had an impish charm and dry sense of humour. He was a knowledgeable mechanic, unafraid to turn his hand to any job. He also enjoyed clay pigeon shooting and fishing. It is a shame I will not have the pleasure of chatting to him again. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and two daughters.

Mick's Sprint is in the process of being sold, so I hope the new owner finds their way here.

Tim

[gjz30075]

Thanks for posting, Tim. My sincere condolences to his family.

[GHill]

RIP fellow ?laner!

[pharriso]

That's sad, he helped me out with fixing my mats (http://www.lotuselan.net/forums/lotus-chassis-f36/carpet-mat-clips-how-assemble-t30416.html#p203272)

A reminder to live life to the full.

RIP Mick & thank you

[elansprint]

Sincere condolences to the family
Ian

[AHM]

RIP MickG!

Always very generous and helpful.

[Famous Frank]

Thank you for letting us all know Tim. I only conversed with him once, but it was memorable. I didn't know about the interest in clay birds. We could have conversed more. It's another sickness I also have. My condolences.

Frank