HE was a decorated war hero and much-loved family man.

Rupert Noye, the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross and France’s highest distinction the Legion d’Honneur for his actions during World War II, has died aged 97.

The husband, father of two, grandfather of five and great grandfather of seven was a truly remarkable man, loved and respected by everyone who knew him.

He had lived in Southampton since 1957 and was well known for his successful civilian career with British Gas.

Born in Yorkshire, his family moved to Bournemouth when he was four.

Rupert volunteered for the Air Force when he was 18 and served until 1949. The rear gunner was one of few remaining veterans.

Soon after reaching his 20th birthday, he climbed into a gun turret for the first of 72 operational flights to defend his crew against enemy fighters. Rupert had already survived a crash landing in the Scilly Isles.

On his last operation, his aircraft was attacked by a German Jet fighter. Rupert faced a barrage of cannon fire which destroyed half his turret but incredibly, he was unscathed.

Rupert met his wife Nesta through his brother, who was married to one of her friends. They wed in 1953 and were married for 67 years until his death from Covid last month.

The couple moved to Southampton when Rupert was offered a promotion and he retired from British Gas in 1988.

He also leaves his daughters Paula and Liz, grandchildren Hannah, Jess, Jake, Kristian and Tyler and great grandchildren Jasper, Esme, Eva, Darcy, Mila, Riva and Buddy.

Daughter Liz said: “There are not enough words to describe our love for you Dad. You were the kindest, most gentle man with endless patience.

“Always interested in everything we did, coming to all of my dancing festivals and being my biggest fan and all of Paula’s guiding achievements, always so very proud.

“When you became a grandfather you were simply the best, once again you showered your grandchildren with so much love. They all adore you and know that they were blessed to have had you as their grandad.

“Then along came the great grandchildren and they too were blessed to know you and share your deep love and the joy you had spending time with them. The best times were when we all got together.

“You were a true hero for your country and to us a true hero of a father, grandfather and great grandfather.”

Rupert’s funeral has taken place.

Donations in his memory can be made to the British Heart Foundation.