JOE BIRTWISTLE

JOE passed away peacefully at Royal Blackburn Hospital on Monday, May 10, aged 91, with his family by his side.

He leaves behind his beloved Jean of 62 years of happy times spent together, devoted sons Ian and John and their partners Anton and Beverley, along with grandson Lewis and partner Rachel.

Following his five-year apprenticeship to become a plasterer, Joe did his National Service in the RAF.

He returned to plastering into his late forties. He then worked as a van driver for Holland’s

Pies, working alongside his brother-in-law Allan until his retirement.

He enjoyed playing all sports, including table tennis, snooker and football, but it was golf that was his true passion.

He was a life member of Baxenden Golf Club and in 1963 became the club’s first winner of the Observer Golf Shield. In his later years, playing bowls alongside his wife would replace golf.

He was a member of Amity Lodge, Haslingden. Joe also enjoyed walking, but will be fondly remembered by many for his love of reading a good book or newspaper from his favourite armchair by the window.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday, May 25, at 1pm at St James Parish Church, Haslingden, followed by interment at Haslingden Cemetery. Due to current restrictions still in place, numbers are limited.

Family flowers only, with donations if desired in memory of Joe to Rossendale Hospice c/o funeral director Caroline Holden-Dewhurst for Johnson Durning & Woods, Haslingden.