The funeral was due to be held on March 23 of popular Saltash vet, Bill Sharpe, who has died aged 60 after battling against cancer for l8 months.
Mr Sharpe, who worked in South East Cornwall for 38 years, died last week.
Although born in Leicestershire he moved with his wife, Liz, to Saltash in l962, and lived there ever since. He had been due to retire from his surgery in Albert Cottage, Liskeard Road, at the end of March.
He treated all animals, but specialised in larger ones.
He leaves his wife, his mother Frances, five children Kerry, Heidi, Colette, Liam and Kristian, and four grandchildren, Jordan, Hallam, Harry and Millie - as well as children-in-law Julie, Steve and Darren.
Mr Sharpe was an admirer of yachtsman Pete Goss, and closely followed the building of the catamaran Team Philips. His son-in-law, Steve Barton, had Mr Sharpe's name inscribed on the yacht only recently. But, sadly, Mr Sharpe was rushed into hospital in Plymouth on the Tuesday when Team Philips was officially named by the Queen. The day also marked his wedding anniversary.
At the service mourners were asked to wear bright, rather than drab colours, to mark a happy life.
His wife said of him that his life as a vet was a career to him rather than a job. She added that he understood animals, and loved nothing 'better than leaning over a gate talking about the countryside and wildlife'.
He was described by Saltash mayor, Mona Tomaszewska, as a wonderful vet. She said his death will be a great loss to the town.
Although the family requested no flowers they said they would welcome donations for tumour research through Pengelly Funeral Service, 5 Victoria Lane, Saltash.