Colonel Geoffrey Dicker, who died, aged 88, on April 20, was a prominent East Anglian figure, combining public service with enthusiastic support for numerous charitable causes.

Colonel Geoffrey Dicker, who died, aged 88, on April 20, was a prominent East Anglian figure, combining public service with enthusiastic support for numerous charitable causes.

He became a member of the Freemasons in 1951 and motivated by the principles of relieving distress wherever it is found and remembering those less fortunate than oneself, he inspired fellow Masons to emulate his lead, thereby bringing the rather sequestered movement into the public gaze.

After a most distinguished war career, which included service throughout the North African campaign and later in Italy, taking part in the bitter fighting around Cassino, he was honoured with the MBE and was twice mentioned in dispatches.

Following the family tradition, in 1963 he became a senior partner of accountancy firm Lovewell Blake, a position also held by his father, Arthur, and his son, Christopher, 35 years later.

He was president of the East Anglian Society of Chartered Accountants and, a keen sailor, he became Commodore of the Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club, which recently celebrated its 150th anniversary. He was also a president and former chairman of the Broads Society and chairman of the Eastern Counties board of the Eagle Star Insurance Company.

He joined the Territorial Army in 1948 and held four commands before becoming Honorary Colonel of 54 (East Anglian) Signals Regiment TA in 1960. He had received the Territorial decoration in 1953. In 1970, he became the first non-regular soldier to be appointed a Colonel Commandant in the Royal Signals. In recognition of his service, he was made an aide-de-camp to the Queen in 1965 and was advanced in the same year to CBE.

His contribution to East Anglian social life was immense. He took great interest in the UEA, where he became Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council.

His wife, Josephine (Fifi) predeceased him. He leaves a son, Christopher, a daughter, Libby, and five grandchildren.