‘Derek had boundless energy and zest for life’
Celebrating the life of businessman, well known by many as an honest and straight-talking professional
A SERVICE to celebrate the life of a well known Leek businessman is to take place next month.
Derek Torr, who was also president of Leek Show committee, died aged 78, after a long illness, on March 24 in 2020.
Born in 1941 into a farming family and the eldest of three boys, Derek was hard working from the outset. He lived the majority of his life in Bradnop and when he finished school he immediately started work.
His career began at Oakes Ash and Sons where he became a young auctioneer. He then moved to Heywoods in Newcastle, and later joined Whittaker & Biggs where in 1976 he became partner and then senior partner.
He left his wife Christine, three daughters, Elizabeth, Rachel and Kelly and three grandchildren. Derek was well known in the local area through his work, by many and in particular the farming community with his reputation as an honest and straight-talking professional.
His auctioneering skills were second to none and people found it a pleasure to listen to him as he entertained the crowd.
He was an active member of the Leek Show committee and was the only original committee member remaining.
In 1981 he became show director, then chairman and then president. He was often found the week prior to the show running around Birchall Playing Fields and organising the marquees, which he loved.
Daughter Rachel said: “Due to the pandemic it’s two years since Derek passed away. To celebrate his life we are holding a service for a life lived to the full at Meerbrook Church on Saturday, May 7 at 2pm.
“Everyone will be made very welcome as we remember Derek. We are asking people to come in floral clothing and wearing a smile. “Donations if desired to Leukaemia Research or Meerbrook Church.” Derek has been described as a true gentleman with boundless energy, a zest for life and a ‘can-do’ attitude who helped thousands of people. A man who would stride through the town with a purpose for his business life but had time for a quick chat with everyone, also a man who adored his family.
Rachel added: “The death of our sister Rebecca, their youngest daughter from leukaemia in 2001, was devastating for my dad and mum and also the rest of the family.
“Our family and friends have tirelessly raised money for Leukaemia Research with walks and charity fundraisers where dad auctioned many weird and wonderful lots. It was a charity very close to his heart.
“He visited Nepal to trek and was pleased to have reached Everest Base Camp. While there he fell in love with the country and in particular a small village – Sano Katheri. He and a group of friends raised money to install solar lighting and extend the existing school where there is a Derek Torr Classroom.”
We are asking people to come to the service in floral clothing and wearing a smile
Derek’s daughter Rachel