BRIAN VIPHAM

MR Brian William Vipham, of Rawtenstall, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, January 8, aged 81.

He was the loving husband of Margaret, and will be greatly missed by his sons Stephen, Mark and wife Gemma, daughters Liz, Julie and Belinda and families, granddaughters Scarlet, Willow and Lucy-Ann, brothers Peter and partner Bernie, Dave and wife Carole, niece Vanessa, and nephews Marc and Daniel.

He started out as a painter and decorator, then was a coal man before working at Doric Springs, in the slipper trade, at Wills fabrics, and in Rossendale Hospital kitchen, but before retirement he was the caretaker at Rawtenstall Health Centre.

In retirement Brian especially adored spending time with his grandchildren, enjoyed walks with his dogs and holidaying abroad with Margaret.

Brian had a fantastic, daft side to his personality and there was always a lot of laughter when he was around. We are all going to miss him very much.

We would like to say a special thank you to Dr Sykes at Ilex View and the district nurses.

A funeral service will be held at 11.30am on Monday, January 24 at Longholme Methodist Church, Rawtenstall led by the Revd David Burrows, followed by a committal service at 1pm at Accrington Crematorium.

Family flowers only; donations if desired to Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary or PMSF UK.

Funeral director: Dawn Winfield for Fred Hamer Funeral Service, Rawtenstall.