Francis John Cadle was born in Thame in March 1887 to George and Annie Cadle. He was brother to Herbert born around 1885, twins Maud & Lillie born around 1890, Albert born around 1894, Jessie born around 1896 and Lizzie born around 1898. 

The 1891 census shows the family living in Bicester Road, Long Crendon. In 1901 he is recorded in the census as an agricultural labourer living with his family in Burts Lane, Long Crendon. The 1911 census shows him as a Road Man-Labourer living in Worminghall, Thame.  

On 9 January 1915 army records show Francis married Minnie Silver at The Independent Chapel, Tetsworth. On 22 November 1915 their son Stanley George was born. They were living at Limmer Cottages, Booker. 

When Stanley was 5 days old, his father enlisted as Pioneer No. WR/22731 in the Royal Engineers. Francis was awarded the Victory Medal & British Medal. 

Francis died on 30 November 1918 at the Central Military Hospital, Aylesbury from pneumonia whilst on leave from France. He is buried at Long Crendon Baptist Burial Ground. 

Minnie went on to marry Frank Butler in September 1921 in Basingstoke. 

Francis is commemorated at Booker Memorial Hall, Bucks and West Wycombe Church.

Julie Wright