Sonny Warner, MBE
His popular music shows in the North West raised mega sums for charities
HE WAS a commercial salesman whose passion for music led to his forming one of the first boy bands. But it was not until his third son was born that my father Sonny Warner, who has died aged 96,created a variety show performed all over the North West of England.
In its 40 year history the Sonny Warner Show raised thousands of pounds for hospitals, care homes, or for people with learning disabilities.
Manchester-born Sonny was the seventh of eight siblings born to Polish Jewish immigrants Rachel and Morris Wagner. He left school at 14 to help provide for the family, working as a machinist, sitting beside his own father who was working on the next machine. Sonny was ambitious and became a commercial salesman.
His passion was music. He sang and played ukulele, like George Formby. After forming his boy bands he auditioned for a dance band. The audition pianist, Pam Seligman, invited him back for more rehearsals. It ended in a marriage lasting 63 years. Sonny was devoted to her and he missed her terribly since her death eight years ago.
When Brian, Graeme and I came along, we were all musical. Our childhood memories were filled with rehearsals for the Sonny Warner show.
Sonny’s passion for charity led him to a second career in fundraising for Jewish charities. He was very well known and trusted by everybody.
My father’s charity and fundraising was about doing good and helping others, rather than receiving recognition.
He was thrilled and very proud to be awarded an MBE in the mid-90s. He recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Jewish Volunteering Network – together with a six minute standing ovation.
One thing we will remember about Sonny was the pride he took in his Jewish heritage. A regular shul goer, he never missed Shabbat candles and prayers. My time with him was precious. We regularly found a guitar and burst into the old time medley.
He was inspirational – a legend in the world of charity fundraising. Even after he retired he continued to raise money every year. He said each year would be the last - and it never was. To relax, he would watch his unmissable Coronation Street and support Manchester United.
Dad’s favourite signature songs were Bring me Sunshine and Happiness. A verse in Happiness which reflects Dad was, “A wise old man, told me one day, happiness is a frame of mind.” Sonny is survived by his sons Brian, Clive and Graeme, nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
Sonny Warner: born February 17, 1923. Died January 2, 2020