A son has hailed the extraordinary commitment of his father who had an unshakeable love for his town.

Eastern Daily Press: A son has paid tribute to his father Alan Holzer, who has died at the age of 80. Picture: Courtesy of David HolzerA son has paid tribute to his father Alan Holzer, who has died at the age of 80. Picture: Courtesy of David Holzer (Image: Archant)

Hayes Alan Holzer, known throughout his life as Alan, died aged 80 at his home in Halesworth on Tuesday, June 26.

Born in London in 1937, Mr Holzer left for Gloucestershire to be educated at one of the country’s first Steiner Waldorf schools, Wynstones, an experience he documented in his book ‘A Shadow of Sunlight’.

It was in 1960 that he married Maureen Cullup, beginning a lifelong partnership that produced three sons - David, Mervyn and Benjamin, who all survive him.

After graduating from university, Mr Holzer became a teacher and started at what was to become Halesworth Middle School, teaching history, drama and German.

Eastern Daily Press: A son has paid tribute to his father Alan Holzer, who has died at the age of 80. Picture: Courtesy of David HolzerA son has paid tribute to his father Alan Holzer, who has died at the age of 80. Picture: Courtesy of David Holzer (Image: Archant)

His position as a highly-respected teacher allowed him to share his love for hobbies including fishing, table tennis and stamp collecting, while he enjoyed building Saxon huts with pupils as an extra-curricular activity.

Away from education, Mr Holzer demonstrated an unrelenting commitment to his town by sitting on Halesworth Town Council for more than 40 years, leading it on two occasions. He was also chairman of the town’s day centre and a Waveney District Councillor, serving as cabinet member for sport and leisure.

David Holzer, one of Alan’s three sons, praised his father for his consideration for others and love for Halesworth.

He said: “As a lifelong socialist, Alan did everything he could to improve the lives of his fellow human beings.

Eastern Daily Press: A son has paid tribute to his father Alan Holzer, who has died at the age of 80. Picture: Courtesy of David HolzerA son has paid tribute to his father Alan Holzer, who has died at the age of 80. Picture: Courtesy of David Holzer (Image: Archant)

“He was a founding member and tireless supporter of the Halesworth Twinning Association and the results of his dedication to Halesworth can be seen throughout the town.

“He was a well-known figure who would often be seen walking his dog and was always happy to stop and chat. He will be deeply missed.”

By the end of his teaching career, Mr Holzer was often teaching the grandchildren of former pupils and was delighted to become a grandfather himself.

Following his well-earned retirement, he was able to engage in his lifelong loves of writing, fishing and travelling.

Anyone wishing to raise a glass to Mr Holzer is invited to The Angel Hotel, Halesworth, from 2.30pm on July 23. There will be a donation box for Halesworth Day Centre and Halesworth Community Nursing Care Fund.