JOHN MASON
MR John Mason, known as Jack, of Milnshaw Gardens, Accrington, died on Friday, July 7, aged 87.
He passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side.
Jack was born and raised in Accrington where he attended St Anne’s School up to the age of 14 years old.
His first job was with Fred Welch Builders in Accrington as an apprentice where he remained for 12 months.
He then joined Fred Roberts Builders in Accrington and worked there until he was 18 years old.
He then joined the army to do his National Service and was based in Egypt.
Following this he returned to the building trade for a short time before moving to Howard and Bullough as a Tipper lorry driver.
After a few years there he left to become a self-employed builder and continued in this line of work for over 40 years up to his retirement.
In his younger days he played football for Woodnook Villa FC and for the Poplar Club (WMC).
He also enjoyed playing snooker, again for the Poplar Club.
He was also the runner up in the Accrington Observer Snooker Cup.
Later in life, after retirement, he took up bowling and played for Gatty Park Bowling Club.
He enjoyed watching all sports on TV.
Both he and his wife Lily travelled extensively across Europe and further afield to Canada and America to visit family.
Jack loved listening to music, especially Elvis and Country and Western.
In his later years Jack watched a lot of TV, his favourite programme being M.A.S.H.
He also got great pleasure from sitting in his garden watching the birds and squirrels feeding.
He leaves his beloved wife of 62 years Lily.
He was the much loved father of Jacqueline, Gillian and Mark, father-in-law of David and Stuart, he was a precious grandad of Neil, Jennifer, Lynsey, Adrian and Marcus, also ‘grandad Jack’ to Lucie, Joseph and Lois.
He was a dear brother of Margaret and a very dear friend to all who knew him.
Requiem Mass will take place on Wednesday, July 19, at 10.30am at St Anne’s RC Church, Cobham Road, Accrington, conducted by the minister Fr Simon Stamp, followed by cremation at Accrington Crematorium Chapel, Burnley Road at 11.40am. Family flowers only please.
Donations are requested to the Royal British Legion.
Funeral director: Hyndburn Funeral Services, Queens Road, Accrington.