1924-2020

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Adam was born in Kolomyia, at that time a town in south-eastern Poland. In this area of rivers and woodland he enjoyed outdoor pursuits such as scouting trips, camping and fishing. In 1939, this region was invaded by the Red Army and Adam was taken along with his mother and sister to a remote area of Siberia. He used this long and gruelling train journey to learn bridge and chess.

Several harsh years followed including deliverance from a fierce blizzard by his trusty ox finding home after a milk delivery. When the Soviets joined the allies Adam was allowed to enlist in the Polish Air Force and embarked on an epic journey to reach Britain. Crossing the Caspian Sea, passing through Iran and Iraq, and sailing to Bombay, Cape Town and Freetown all preceded his arrival in Glasgow. Adam overcame severe bouts of frostbite, malaria and typhus en route. His happiest moment was literally walking into his sister on a Lebanese beach after four months of separation.

After training at various RAF bases Adam qualified as a navigator for a Polish bomber squadron. He flew in the famed de Havilland Mosquito and his missions after the war included delivering the Polish documents to the war trials in Nuremberg where he was permitted to witness one session of the proceedings. With a grant from the Polish Government, Adam was then accepted to study dentistry at Bristol University. During his nights at Wills Hall he would keep himself awake with damp towels wrapped around his neck, to have more hours in which to improve his English as well as complete his course work. He qualified with some of the highest marks.

Adam's first practice was in Calne and he then moved back to Bristol where he continued to work until retirement. He was cherished by his patients not only for his gentle treatment and professional competence but also for his caring attitude. He would often be a comfort to them, discussing personal issues with compassion and discretion.

After retirement Adam moved to Kent. He loved being near the sea and enjoyed the views of rolling countryside and picturesque towns and villages. He only became frail in his last couple of years and up until then enjoyed walking, shopping and good quality coffee with his wife Maria. He is survived by Maria and his two sons Robert and Marcus.

Marcus Lenko