Obituary of William A. Mostyn-Brown

On Wednesday, May 17, 2006, at the age of 93 years, William A. “Moss” Mostyn-Brown faced death with the same dignity and courage that supported him throughout his life. Born December 20, 1912, in London, England, he was the fourth child of Maurice Mostyn-Brown of Cardiff, Wales, and Mable Husband of Cornwall, England. His childhood included being sent away to boarding school for his education at St. Paul’s. His father was resident architect for Harrods in London. In 1938 Moss joined the RAF and became a member of that elite group of men and women who were immortalized in Winston Churchill’s statement that, “Never in the field of human conflict has so much been owed by so many to so few”. Moss served gallantly through six years of war, notably the “Battle of Britain”. As Squadron Leader he led his Squadron 512 across the Rhine at Wesel, while taking part in a major glider towing operation. He would recount his vivid memory of landing his Dakota on Liberation Day in Copenhagen, Denmark, where his RAF regiment was greeted by cheering crowds who filled their arms with flowers and tiny Danish flags. He received numerous war medals, including the Air Medal, and being named Chevalier de l`ordre de la Couronne avec Palme, and l`Croix de Guerre 1940 avec Palme by Belgium. During the war, Moss was sent to Canada for R&R, and to spend some time training RCAF pilots at Medicine Hat, AB. While in Canada, he met and married Lois Brown of Calgary, who preceded him in death in 1987. After the war Moss returned to Canada and continued his flying affiliation through his distinguished service as Group Captain and Commanding Officer of 30 Wing (Aux.) RCAF. He retired from those duties April 10, 1959. In addition to his passion for the RAF and RCAF, Moss had an entrepreneurial spirit and he was a well-known member of the Calgary business community prior to his retirement. He was a Life Member of the RAF Club, London, as well as the Ranchman’s Club, Calgary. He enjoyed his memberships in the Calgary Golf and Country Club, Glencoe Club, the Royal Victoria Yacht Club in Victoria, BC and the Marrakesh Golf & Country Club in Palm Desert, CA. While Moss was proud of his British heritage and the opportunity to serve his country during war, he was also grateful for the opportunities that being a Canadian brought him. His dual citizenship was very important to him. Moss is survived by, and will be greatly missed by his cherished companion of eighteen years, Ann Eyerly of Palm Desert, CA. He is also survived by his close friends, who will remember him as the epitome of an Englishman, for his integrity, energy, selfless service, honour and generosity. Moss was predeceased by his brother, Maurice; and sisters, Phyllis and Betty. At Moss’ request, no Funeral Service will be held. A private Celebration of Life will be held in his honour. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Salvation Army, 420 – 9 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0R9 Telephone: (403) 410-1111, www.salvationarmy.org. In living memory of William Mostyn-Brown, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W., Calgary, AB T2S 2L5. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.