Sonia Mitchell, Gleaner Writer

Hector Joseph Lodge, 86, popularly known as Uncle Hector, was best described as a vivid sports enthusiast whose passion was like none other. Just as important, many viewed him as a master printer.

These sentiments were delivered at a thanksgiving service for the former Gleaner employee on Wednesday at the St Boniface Church in Harbour View, St Andrew.

Lodge, born on July 23, 1923, the oldest of his siblings, was seen by many as a tall, strong man, a fact which had little to do with his actual height. He was also known for trying to include everyone in whatever he was doing. His unique abilities to relate to both the young and old earned him the respect of all classes within the society.

Lodge started work at The Gleaner Company on March 21, 1941, after leaving Kingston Technical High School. He quickly advanced in the printing profession, learned new technologies and became the first composer of The Star and The Children's Own.

Ralston Getfield, assistant circulation manager at The Gleaner and close friend, said Lodge touched the lives of the people with whom he associated. Lodge, he said, was a people person.

"Hector walked with kings, but he did not lose the common touch," he commented.

"He lived his life to the fullest and was a natural at expressing himself with a sincere heart," he added.

Lodge passed on March 7. He will be remembered as the man who gave of his best. He will be missed by his families, co-workers, and friends.