Mt Monty by Chris

The little I saw and shared and savoured
became much more
and still does
as every memory multiplies
the sense
of having met
a man, such a man so fine
that tributes can't define

on 08.08.08

on 07.08.08

Monty by Neville Alexander

It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have known, admired and loved you all my life. You have always been a great older brother. These days, you might be considered as the ideal role model, but I don't recall that I ever considered you as such. You had all the charm, looks and talents, in enviable abundance; designer, artist, writer, salesman and wit - to list but a few.

We were very fortunate to have had such a wonderful Mum and Dad who looked after us through the most difficult of times. With hindsight, it seems that nost of the 70 odd years you and I shared were spent continents apart. But for me the 1940s and 50s, then the late 1990s, are richest in memories of you. I'll touch, here, upon the earlier times because they must be less well known.

An early memory is of one exciting summer morning, finding pieces of shrapnel and bomb fins in a field just yards from our home. (Luckily cluster bombs had yet to be invented). Another time, we peered from our Anderson shelter awed as, high overhead, sunlit Spitfires and Me 109s climbed, banked and spun in deadly combat, to the music of their machine-guns.

You were about 16 and I was watching you working with blade and brush on a broom handle and a cylinder of balsa wood. Before long an impressive baton had emerged, destined for a bandmaster, somewhere. Amazing. Just a few days' later you were leading the ATC band, through Rickmansworth, nonchalantly spinning, lofting and then catching the baton. Miraculous, and all self-taught. Just like your 'party trick' - being able to reel off a score of words or objects in the precise order in which they were given to you!

An ATC was on your chosen career path, to qualify as a fighter pilot. We kids shared your delight when you passed your medical, thanks to a fortuitous interruption that allowed you to use both eyes at a tricky moment. We were miserable, with you, when, at a later time, the flaw came to light and your hopes were dashed. One afternoon, we spotted a Dornier bomber flying at tree-top height, just beyond the end of the garden. We knew that an army unit had moved into the woods there. A few nights later some of the Dornier's comrades returned, unheralded, to drop a stick of bombs. They managed to miss us, and the troops, but killed people living in the house next door to ours. When you returned from the war, Monty, you brought us wonderful gifts from India and Africa but, best of all, of course, a brother undamaged.

In later years, I was lucky to work with Ginny and you, and your splendid son Phil. Lo and behold, yet again you had mastered something new - the application of semiotics to marketing. But this time you didn't need self-tuition, you had Ginny. It was a great day when you met her.

Regrets, I have a few. I failed to show you Israel; it would have blown your mind. I couldn't get over the water to see you at the end. We could only be with you in spirit.

Your ever-loving brother, Neville

on 26.05.08

What a charmer! by John Nolan

EVERYONE whoever met Mont has a Monty Tale to tell. Here's mine.

Picture the scene, 9am, Monday morning in some cheerless client head office. Monty and I are being introduced to some brand team or other. I'm shaking hands with people who's names I immediately forget. Monty's grinning that grin and saying 'Hi' when he's introduced to a woman who's obviously stressed out, proper irritated actually. She reaches out her hand and instead of taking it he strokes her earlobe and says 'what lovely earings'!!!!!!!! She visibly melts.

Monty is the only man who I've ever known who could charm the birds from the trees in such a way and have them eating out of his hands.

Thank you Monty for for all your patience and guidance. It has been my pleasure. You're a doll.

Love to you and yours,

John x

on 07.05.08

Minty Saab by Mike & Jan Murray

Stylish,comfortable,chic,fast and thirsty - and that's only his old car,
Henceforth to be known as "The Mont".

It has been all our good fortune to have been touched by this lovely gentle giant.

Miss you Mont. 9.05.08

on 07.05.08

Monty by Roger

Written with some totally irrational idea that you may somehow receive this:

Dear Monty

Last night, the night before your funeral, Gloria and I went to a concert by the Alban Berg Quartet.

They played Beethoven's opus l32 string quartet with a particularly passionate and profound performance - producing a prolonged standing ovation. As an encore they then played the Cavatina from opus l30 - well! We were overwhelmed with such emotion at such a time we became convinced that this performance was specifically for us - for Mont, Gin and Glodgerog - as a marker for the wonderful times we have enjoyed together.

Two further memories: Monty - your immense bear-hug of welcome to the family when first we met - and second that tiny squeeze of the hand, gentle smile and unforgettable sparkle of recognition in the eye, despite the haze of painkillers.

Such inspiration, so much love, so much FUN.

Thank you, dear Monty, thank you.

Roger

on 06.05.08

Monty by Patricia (Grotty)

Monty Alexander - what an inspiration to all who met him - from the first time I went to join Alexander-Butterfield as Monty's P.A in 1964 I knew I had met a most original and extraordinary man. Over the years that I worked with him he became an inspiration to me, both as a human being and as a boss - he was my guide and mentor in my youthful 20's and 30's and a kind friend - although latterly from afar - in my later years. I remember those first years with laughter and tears - mostly laughter - and the moment that Ginny came into his life was one of the happiest for him and all of us at AB - and later when Phil arrived on the scene, he couldn't contain his happiness. Paul and Kathy too were great joys to him as they were growing up, and many was the time that I had to solve 'their' problems for Monty.
I remember too when I decided to get married he advised me not to do it - how right he was!! But then he always was.
One of the greats of his profession - he headed up one of the most forward thinking boutique agencies of the 60's and 70's - and I was proud to have been part of it; many of the greats today went through the doors of Alexander-Butterfield.
Here in Forna, Spain you will always be rememebred for your exuberance and generosity (your house is always called Monty's house - never the new owner's!!) and all the people from the village that knew you send their heartfelt condolences to all of your family.
You will always be here in my heart Monty - as you always have been - and I look forward to meeting up with you again in the future to have a tipple or two. May your future be happy and bright and free of pain and sorrow, wherever you may be now. Love and hugs - your faithful 'Grotty' xxx

on 06.05.08

Monty! by Sören and Babban Blanking

“Some blessing moments in life you meet someone you have never seen
before and you look at each other and a kind of miracle happens; a natural feeling of closeness and total, almost childish joy.

We met in Venice in the marvellous summer of 1975. Monty represented
England in that years Advertising Film Festival´s jury. I was the Scandinavian
representative. We had never met before.

The afternoon before the jury should go into five days commercial
darkness there were drinks around the Lido pools and there it happened. We met Ginny and Monty.

It is 33 years ago. I bet a thousand pounds that no one in that jury,
coming from all corners of the world,found a friendship like that one we did. And still have.

I really don´t know why I loved and admired Monty so much,from the
first moment we met.

I loved his face.I loved his beard. I loved his voice.His low voice.I loved his way of explaining.

I loved his beautiful hands. And his smile.Like he understood everything I wanted to say, but could not. I loved his casual cloths - I wanted to be like him, for heavens sake!

What did we talk about? Not about advertising. Life. Nature. Travel.
Books.(Atlas shrugged).

Monty made med grow. I think that was his greatest gift – he, in a
miraculous way, made people grow as human beings.

So,Monty,do not go gentle into that good night!”

Sören Blanking, Sweden.

on 03.05.08

What a guy! by Greg Lawson

I only met Monty a few times, but in those meetings i felt i had known him for ever and learned more from five minutes of looking into those beautiful eyes of his than i could describe. He exuded humanity in a way that few people can and his strength was gentle and as strong as the earth. In his open heart and the love he showed, he gave you the gift of everything good he had felt in his life. Its a present i shall cherish and never forget.
Thanks Monty, just thinking of your smile makes me smile, and all ways will.
Love and memories Greg xx

on 02.05.08

What an inspiration by Alison Jackson

Monty - The most energised and creative man I have had the pleasure of working for. Our day trip to Dublin will always stay a great memory!
Love and hugs to Ginny , Phil and Nicky - sorry I cannot be with you on 2nd May.
Alison xxx

on 01.05.08

Mighty Monty by Mary and Peter

The Alexanders and Walkers fused many years ago, and for more than forty years we have shared so much - work, fun, holidays and so much more. Monty was always there as a great friend with the right word and support for every occasion. Monty was a family friend and mentor to our children. An example was when he encouraged one of our daughters, who were at a crossroads in her life to call herself a 'Refreshment technologist' rather than an 'ice-cream scooper' and get back to studying. This was the best advice she could have had.
Peter had the privilege of working for Monty for some years, and was always in awe of his creative intellect and tireless energy. His huge personality was an inspiration to all who worked with him. Mont, you have been loved by so many especially by Ginny and Phil and our family.
Look down on us, Monty.
With unending love from Mary and Peter
Thursday, 01 May 2008

on 01.05.08

Forna Memories. by Anthony & Michael

Dear Monty.There was this young woman sitting on the terrace of the Nautilus in Forna with a handsome man.Next day they were gone.That was over 25 years ago.Very soon we got to know you especially since Ginny & I were old friends from RADA days.You were so generous & we enjoyed many happy times at your old house.Of course there were drinks & Fiestas!Now we live part of each year in Forna & we have a special Fond memory of you when you came to see us with Ginny & Phil.You will always be part of our New Life in Spain.

on 01.05.08

A Creative Colossus by Piers Heriot-Walker

I'm upset at his passing - but the truth is every time I think about Monty it makes me smile. He always has.

I've been lucky enough to have known Monty for my entire life and I was even luckier to spend a lot of time with him, Ginny and Phil in my youth and I think of us all Walkers and Alexander's as extended family.

Monty was big man with an unfathomable creative talent, but bigger yet was his heart - he could inspire confidence in you like nobody I've ever met with a simple gaze.

Phil and I always used to say that Mont was the coolest 'dude' we knew - In truth he was the coolest 'dude' I'm ever going to know.

Always in my thoughts

Piers

on 30.04.08

Tears Flow by Deborah Stent

I sit here tears flowing reading all your great memories and words and feel so honoured to be an extended part of such a loving family. You guys are all very very beautiful people. I remember Mont, with a smile on my face as he always had one on his, with his twinkling eyes and his beautiful dress sense and his true gentleman stature. On our wedding day, Mont was itching to get on the dance floor, he was the first to be dancing on the side line, with his jacket draped over both shoulders he looked very dapper indeed, even from the bar to floor there was a spring in his step!
Always remembered with a smile.

DVD of his jolly day on its way!

Love to all
Debs
xxx

on 30.04.08

Our Lovely Neighbour by Heather,Gary and the Boys

Although we knew you only briefly Monty, in your long and adventurous life - it didn't take many meetings to realise that we really valued your wonderful presence in this little community in Garboldisham. We are so glad your last lap here was enjoyed to the full by yourself and Ginny. Thank you for your hospitality and your generosity of spirit. It is comforting to know you were so surrounded by the love of your dear family and friends - at the end of your life's journey.
We miss you, but will always remember a true gentleman, with a twinkle in your eye, and your lovely, open, welcoming smile that embraced life, and everyone who walked your way.

All our love,
Heather, Gary, Ryan,Toby and Ben xxxxx

on 30.04.08

A very special goodbye by Mickle

We held your hand in turn, looking into your heart and soul, remembering the Monty we all knew and loved so much.
How peaceful you were, music and sunlight surrounding you.
You fell asleep with the quiet dignity and coolness you always showed.
If there is a heaven above,
one day I'd want to be there too
Where Monty will greet me and say -
"Hello You".

on 30.04.08

My Uncle Monty by Philipa

Aunty Monty, as Joey called you, with your lovely way of always making me feel so special. Always there for Mum, I knew that you were always there for us too.

I will never forget your openhearted non-judgemental love of life.

Love, Phil xxx

on 30.04.08

Forna memories by Lizzy keene

I remember Monty very well from Forna holidays in the 1980s. A generous-hearted man, warm and friendly: he made my 16th birthday very special indeed by sharing half his cake with me - it was his 60th! Lots of love and best wishes to Phil and Ginny, I'm thinking of you.

Lizzy
29 April 2008

on 29.04.08

An Expert at Life by Greg Rowland

A world without the ever-delightful Monty will be truly thinner. He was the absolute definition of warmth, kindness and generosity — and a huge inspiration to myself and others in so many ways. Monty was blessed with an eternal capacity to live in the moment, whether it was experimenting with the internet (in 1993!) or finding new avenues for his boundless creative curiosity.

It’s so sad that he’s left us, but everyone should be heartened by the example of a man who lived life with such grace, wit and endless optimism. In the end, I’m pretty sure that the answer to more than a few of life’s questions can be addressed by simply asking ‘What would Monty do?’

All my love to Ginny, Phil, The Bragmans and Monty fans everywhere…

Greg

on 29.04.08

What a wonderful man! by Tracey Whitmore

How the tears flow just to see the beautiful impact one man can have with a life well lived... I'm sure I speak on behalf of Ant as well when I say we feel very lucky and privileged to have crossed your path. A relatively brief crossing perhaps, but one of suitable impression, just the same.

All our love on your passing, Monty, and may you continue to shine on, knowing your mark is firmly in our hearts.

An inspiration that will be a touchstone to us and for - I sincerely hope - many years to come.

With love and gratitude,
Antony and Tracey xxxx

on 29.04.08

The A Team by Nerelle

Darling Ginny and Monty - I can only ever think of think of them as a team. Monty was best man at our wedding (June 1968) and when I last saw him he had not changed at all. A wonderful life well lived. Both of them were the true hosts, always with welcome on their lips and a hug. Many many hugs to Ginny and Philip - hope you have many smiles with memories to counterbalance the tears.

on 29.04.08

Happy memories by Seymour

A few happy memories immediately spring to mind: those superb intricately made cards Monty used to create for our birthdays; the first one he did was a magnificent spoof edition of the Eagle, a comic with which I was very enamoured at the time. Looking back now, the very happiest occasion for us was Monty and Ginnys visit to Knokke for Naftali's barmitzvah; it was on one of those lovely sunny summer weekends you very occasionally get in Belgium; Monty and Ginny arrived in style of course, sun-tanned, laughing as always, on bicycles. And finally most unforgetable of all of course was Mont & Ginnys wedding day at which I had the honour of being best man. Mont big brother, au revoir, you were the greatest.

on 29.04.08

To a wonderful Uncle by Simon Bragman

When I put my daughter to bed, she always asks for stories of my childhood, I tell her about my adored Uncle Monty who who gave me so many special memories when I was growing up, my childhood wouldn't of been the same without him. You lit up the room with your presence like the fireworks would like up the skies at Chitcombe. I'm raising my glass to the best uncle ever with a 'Monty's Special'.
You will be loved and in my heart forever xxxx
on 29.05.08

on 29.04.08

A real Gent by Chris Poole

A gentle man and a gentleman . Sorry we met so infrequently. My love to the ones who now have to miss you so very much x

on 29.04.08

My Special Uncle by Paulie B

Furry beard, gentle manner, loving smile always there, interested and up for it. I am proud to share your Alexander nose and hairline, I aspire to having the same big warm heart & gentle humanity you brought to the world.

Thank you for being such a special uncle,

Love Paul xxxx

on 28.04.08

Uncle Monty by Jojo

My Uncle - SURELY the best Uncle there has ever been and probably ever will be! Cheers to you Mont - see ya kiddo x x x X

on 28.04.08

Ginny's Love by Rachel Kershaw

As one of Ginny's cousins although we had not seen Monty for some years (since the move from London) I know how happy he has made Ginny and how proud he was of Phil. He was always the life and soul of the party and I will remember him as a generous, loving and intelligent man who lived life to the full. It is so comforting to know that he departed this life in his own home surrounded by his family.
Rachel
on 28.4.08

on 28.04.08

My favourite uncle by Moge

I have been honored to have had such a wonderful uncle . I have so many memories of Monty , varying from incredibly detailed answers to any question I threw at him to endless laughter and music .

Everyone who has met him has loved him .

Thank you for being you xxxx

on 28.04.08

My brother by Glodge

Darling Mont - A truly adored, wonderful brother. Always there for me - always had time. Full of love, warmth, support, fun, laughter and joy.

The world will be a poorer place without you Mont.

Love you always.
on 29.04.08

on 28.04.08

Worth being alive by Keith Ravenscroft

I worked with Monty and Ginny only twice. Both times (and both people) inspired me.
Monty combined a seemingly casual elegance of self and mind with a formidable and effortless ability to get to the root of a problem or to redefine it in a way none of us had thought of.
Monty was living proof of the saying that there is always time for one more adventure, and I shall remember him as one of that small number of people who, by their example and their presence, make it worth being alive.

My thanks and love go to you, Monty. You were a truly exceptional and sweet man.

Keith

on 28.04.08

Memories by Lawrence Sissling

Although our paths only crossed occasionally, his imprint was so bold that the mention of his name brought back instant recall. His love of life, of Ginny, Phil and all his family was so evident.
I will remember him always and will never listen to "climb upon my knee sonny boy" without a smile and a tear.
God Bless Monty

on 28.04.08

My friend's best friend by wendy gordon

Ginny - ever since I have known you - way back in the emergent research and planning world of the early 70's, i have known Monty too - threading through your conversation and later in person. To have a best friend, a partner in the work you love and a companion to your life is such a privilege. I admired Mont so much and as for you, what to say except a huge hug to you and to all your family. Love
Wendy G

on 28.04.08

Such an elegant presence by David Giles

Monty has been a part of the lives of all the Gileses since the early 60s. My first paid job was for Monty - as a baby model in 1963! He was at so many birthdays (he and Ginny gave me a magnum of vintage Veuve, quails eggs and smoked oysters...when I was 11!), my 18th, my 21st, my wedding, my sisters' weddings, Ma's funeral... how on earth will we ever have a big occasion without him there? But of course, he will be there, always, his presence felt - funny, amused, curious, charming and with such an easy elegance. Always learning, always listening, radiating generosity. A beautiful life well lived.
Love always to Monty and his whole family.
Davidxxx

on 28.04.08

My Mont by Ginny

Head and shoulders above the rest: in body, mind, spirit and heart. To know you was to love you, a reason to wake up each morning. But to be loved by you and to share your glorious curiosity, your huge Renaissance mind and your irrepressible joy in life for more than 40 years...oh, thank you baby.

When the sun goes down over the yardarm, we will always be together.

Ever your Gin

on 25.04.08

My friend by Phil Alexander

Here's to the man who taught me about Beethoven, Rembrandt and malt whisky. But also to the warmest, most life-affirming, biggest-hearted human being I will ever know.

I love you forever Mont xxx

on 25.04.08