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Dave Wetzel

Thank-you for highlighting the sad news of the passing of Dave Wetzel. As one of the people lucky enough to serve under him when he was Leader of Hounslow council, I valued Dave as a friend and colleague who was a dynamic leader and retained the respect of both councillors and officers. Dave understood the value of public service and had also been an elected member of the GLC and a wonderful advocate for public transport. But more than any of his many achievements he was just such a lovely, lovely man, kind and very genuine, he enjoyed a long and happy marriage to Heather, also a former councillor. Sincere condolences to her and his daughters and grandchildren, he really will be missed by all of us who knew him, and will be remembered with great affection and many smiles.

Vanessa Smith ● 238d5 Comments

Knew him well when he was Ken Livingstone No2.  Made a good start at TfL but was usurped by the culture that now marbles the GLA and TfL.A good listener and never afraid to agree with common sense pragmatism when openly discussed.True to his beliefs but always open to ideas.Nice memories.  Rest in Peace.

Raymond Havelock ● 221d

Dave and Heather lived next door but on to us on Adelaide Terrace for a number of years. Better neighbors it would be hard to find.When my wife was having to attend hospital because of illness Dave was always happy to offer a lift and would  wait for her outside, even after they moved away he would ring her to check if she had an appointment and if she wanted/needed a lift.Dave was about as opposite as could be from my politics and we both knew, so the simple solution was we never talked about the subject, he served on Hounslow Council, with my father being on the Conservative benches, for many years. A truly decent man who will be sadly missed.

Simon Foster ● 231d

I got to know Dave Wetzel (not enough and not for long enough) as a passionate campaigner for more rational taxing of land, a Green activist and a resident in Brentford. Heather was still Labour and saw her campaigning here many times - Dave usually when he was campaigning for the Greens.Both of them lovely people. I saw him at a dinner earlier this year when he was clearly unwell and have been exchanging texts via WhatsApp until a few days before he passed. Was just getting round to send a longer message but I was too slow.I will miss him, and so will the world.

Guy Lambert ● 237d

Agree very sad news!  He was a very kind and genuinely lovely gentleman. R.I.P. Sincere condolences to his family and friends

Mari Austin ● 237d

I am so sorry to hear this news He was indeed a lovely man. I remember the last time I met him Was when I stood as an independent councillor at the count at twickenham stadium. He was a very decent honest individual. My heartfelt condolences to his family

Robert Ayres ● 238d