Tag: Gather

The family of Steve Dakin was truly moved by the vast number of motorcyclists who came to honor his memory.

In a heartfelt tribute, the coffin of the retired engineer was transported to The Birches crematorium by a model steam engine.

Steve on his cherished Harley-Davidson (Image: Supplied) The atmosphere was filled with applause as Michael Buble’s song ‘Everything’ played, inviting everyone to celebrate his life.

Over 100 motorcyclists joined Steve on his last ride (Image: Supplied) His daughter, Katie Mulhern, remarked: “I’ve never witnessed a funeral where people applauded as the coffin was brought in.”

The family expresses gratitude to residents for clearing the area for bikers (Image: Supplied) “It was a really beautiful moment.”

Steve’s last request was for his coffin to be carried by the last model steam engine he built (Image: Supplied) “The turnout was incredible, with many needing to stand outside.”

Steve and Karen riding their Harley-Davidsons (Image: Supplied) “We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every single person who attended.”

Enthusiastic bikers Karen and Steve (Image: Supplied) “A special thank you goes to Dave Staton for letting us use his model steam engine, the last one dad built, for his final journey to the crematorium, which was his last wish.”

A hand-knitted Harley-Davidson crafted specifically for Steve’s coffin by the Woolverine Ladies Middlewich Knitting and Crochet Group (Image: Supplied) Hailing from Goostrey, the 68-year-old had moved to Middlewich and attended countless steam engine rallies throughout his life.

Steve was a retired engineer who spent many years working at Jodrell Bank as a shift engineer.

His father, Jim, was one of the original founding members of the Astle Park steam engine rally in Chelford.

Both he and his wife, Karen, had a shared passion for motorbikes, owning their own Harley-Davidsons.

A dedicated family man with two children, Steve was active in the Mancunian Chapter of the Harley-Davidson Owners Group, King’s Motorcycle Club Middlewich, and the Cheshire Live Steamers model steam club.

Katie shared, “He actually crafted his own steam engine models from scratch.

“With his engineering expertise, he could repair almost anything and was always willing to lend a hand or tools to others.

“His love for bikes was evident; during one rally, he fixed another biker’s broken motorcycle right there on the field.”

His brother Will and son Harry share his enthusiasm for building engines.

Steve also enjoyed archery and line dancing, was a member of the Steam Boat Association, and conducted boiler tests for steam model engines and boats.

Additionally, he played darts and dominoes at various pubs in Middlewich.

Unfortunately, he passed away after a brave fight against cancer, enduring for more than two years.

Katie expressed, “Everyone who knew him understands how fiercely he fought to stay positive, remaining the cheerful man we all loved.

“Even during his hospital stays, we needed to tell the doctors that he wasn’t just half full; he was three-quarters full.”

“He was always the first to step up if someone needed assistance.”

Steve was a proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Harley, Pippa, and Molly.

Steve Spencer, director of the Mancunian Chapter, stated: “Steve was an integral part of our Harley-Davidson Chapter and he will be dearly missed by us all.”

The Dakin family extends their gratitude to James Byatt for his help in organizing the funeral, Anna Byatt for the floral arrangements, and funeral directors Joseph Edwards and Sons for their support.

The Woolverine Ladies Middlewich Knitting and Crochet Group created over 130 worry worms for bikers and mourners, in red, Steve’s favored color.

The ladies also handcrafted a special motorbike for his coffin.

Steve Spencer and Dave Capper coordinated the motorcycle escort, while The Big Lock and Newton Brewery provided parking space for the bikers.

Celebrant Steve Game-Blackmoor led the service.

The reception was held at The Turnpike Pub with a buffet catered by Jackie and Karl Osborne.

More than £500 was raised for St Luke’s Hospice in his memory.

For those interested in making a donation, please visit josephedwards.co.uk/online-donation