Charles Wright, a decorated World War II veteran, lived in Ipswich, Suffolk, believing that as much as 7,500 people died during the COVID-19 outbreak in British nursing homes.
A 99-year-old war hero who was on a Sir Winston Churchill spy team has died of coronavirus.
Charles Wright, who lived in a nursing home in Ipswich, Suffolk, was selected to go behind the Japanese lines to defend Britain and its allies during World War II.
Mr Wright died of Covid-19 in the wake of increasing fears about the number of deaths in nursing homes, which are believed to be as high as 7,500.
Known to his family and friends as Sonny, he was the “ultimate modern father” and in his 90s, his grief-stricken son Clive stated, he’s still working as handyman work.
He said his father died on Friday morning at Willows Nursing Home.
Clive Wright informed the Ipswich Star that his dad would “do anything for anyone” and also that “still hanging doors in his 90’s.”
He added, “There is no sadness, he’s had a long, happy life and it’s amazing to have such a complete-one.
“He lost several friends in the war, and it’s amazing for him to be so fortunate and to survive.
“Because of the limitations, it was hard not to be able to go to visit my dad at the care home, but I know he wasn’t alone because there are amazing carers and staff over there. I just hope he didn’t assume we give him up.
Mr Wright, who began his military career when he was fifteen, was given a badge and certificate by the Government of Norway at a special ceremony three years ago for his contribution during the war.
He was also engaged in special missions to support the Norwegians.
During the Battle of Malta he fought the Germans and Italians, and was held as a prisoner of war on the Greek island of Leros in 1943.
He was released after 18 months in prison, and then he returned home to Ipswich.
He married his wife Ruby in 1946 and the couple went on to have three daughters, 12 grandchildren and 24 great grand children.
Since retirement at 65 he had co-owned a construction firm. His wife, who was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, died four years ago and became a nursing home patient last year.
However, In the United Kingdom more than 15,000 people died after catching coronavirus.