THIS week marked a year since the country first went into lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Since then, more than 500 people in Warrington have died with the virus.

Here are your tributes to many of them.

Rest in peace.

CHRIS JONES

Warrington Guardian:

CHRIS Jones was the first of nearly 500 patients who have died at Warrington Hospital after contracting coronavirus over the past year.

But he was far more than just a number, or a statistic.

The 59-year-old, from Sandymoor in Runcorn, was formerly a popular science teacher at Cardinal Newman Catholic High School in Latchford and – most importantly – a beloved husband, dad and granddad.

His passing on March 18 last year on ward A7 was a grim milestone in what would become a truly horrific pandemic.

And it left a ‘huge crater’ in the lives of his family.

Remembering her partner of 43 years, wife Cath said: “Chris was a wonderful caring and lovely husband, dad and granddad – his family meant the world to him.

“A popular friend to many and a loveable teacher, he was a head of science for most of his teaching career in Warrington and assistant principal examiner for a national exam board.

“He was always happy to help and support his pupils and work colleagues, a true gentleman who was always smiling.

“He was always there for his family, he was truly a unique man.”

In a tribute to Chris, Cath added: “On March 18, 2020, a huge crater formed when we had to say goodbye to you.

“Thank you for a wonderful 43 years together, you left behind your children and grandchildren who will remember you forever.

“Not a day goes by where we don’t think or speak of you – we have our memories stored safely away in our hearts, that huge smile and your lovely curls will be forever in our hearts.

“Sleep tight with the stars you so loved.”

PETER IVES

Warrington Guardian:

CHARITY founder and ‘pillar of the community’ Peter Ives died on April 4 after contracting coronavirus.

The 80-year-old, of Gorse Covert, was born in Derby before his work took him and his family around the world – including to Singapore and Chicago – before the great granddad settled in Warrington after becoming managing director of Winwick Quay-based Optibelt.

He co-founded Leukaemia Care UK in the 1960s after losing two daughters to the disease and was a valued member of the Birchwood Lions as well as a patron of several other charities such as Warrington Disability Partnership.

His daughter Kim Hunt said: “He was so selfless and so kind, and very stubborn as well, but a true professional at all times.

“He was very much a pillar of the community.”

Peter was also the lead organiser of the annual Remembrance Day services in Birchwood.

Birchwood Lions said: “Peter Ives was an unsung hero, a community champion who devoted much of his life to the service of others.

“If there was a need, Peter would be first in line to help out.

“A lovely man who was loved by many, and who will be greatly missed.”

WDP chief executive Dave Thompson added: “He was a genuinely hard-working, honest and reliable guy and a true friend.”

PETE DAVIES

Warrington Guardian:

DELIVERY driver Pete Davies passed away aged 60 on April 22.

The granddad-of-four, who worked for FedEx and also delivered for takeaways in the town, died in hospital with his daughters Emma Crawford and Claire O’Brien by his side.

Emma said: “He was very friendly, he was the life and soul of the party and a bit of a joker.

“He was a real family man – he was all about his family.”

Kind-hearted residents donated thousands of pounds in order to support the family following Pete’s death.

Emma added: “The generosity has just been amazing – it’s really unbelievable, I can’t put it into words.

“It’s a comfort to know that he was loved by so many people.

“We want to say a massive thank you to our friends and family who have donated, and also to the NHS.

“They played music for him and put up pictures of his family.

“You could see the love and care that they gave him, he was well looked after.”

ANDY COLLIER

Warrington Guardian:

HOLLINS Park Hospital nurse practitioner Andy Collier died on April 15.

The 53-year-old was previously a rugby league player with Wigan Warriors and Leigh Centurions, and also ran the First and Last pub in Leigh with his wife.

Rob Kelly, ward manager on the Marlowe Unit on which Andy worked, said: “Andy was all about putting other people first – whether that was patients on the ward or his colleagues across the trust.

He was very down to earth, fair and selfless.

“I will remember him as a team player and someone who was passionate about bringing people together on our team development days to improve our environment for staff and patients.

“It was lovely to hear the reaction of our patients, who commented that he was always approachable and helped them however he could.”

Leigh Centurions described the back rower as a ‘hard-working and industrious player who was popular with his teammates’.

North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust chief executive Simon Barber added: “I would like to express my gratitude to Andy for all he did for our patients and staff – it is clear he was a very dedicated and compassionate man. Our thoughts are with Andy’s family.”

SARFRAZ QUAYYUM

Warrington Guardian:

SARFRAZ Quayyum, 53, from Great Sankey, died on June 29 at Warrington Hospital.

Sarfraz was one of five brothers and one sister born and lived in Warrington.

He leaves behind Yasmin his wife, three children and one granddaughter who meant the world to him.

Sarfraz was a larger than life character always willing to crack a joke and made many people smile, even when the chips were down.

He was very much a family orientated person and was considered to be the heartbeat of the family in Warrington, always willing to assist and help family and friends alike.

He had a good network of tradespeople like plumbers and electricians and would be the go-to guy to many people in the Asian community should they require jobs to be done around the house.

His biggest achievement was to take on the refurbishment of the central mosque in Arpley street Warrington.

All the current parishioners of the mosque remember him fondly and he was also a very close friend of the Imaam of the mosque Hafiz Ali.

A day does not pass when Sarfraz is not missed by family and friends alike.

May god grant him the highest station in paradise. Ameen.

A short poem written by his niece, Farah Quayyum: “O my dearest uncle, lost for words am I, to describe this heartache that you have left behind.

How Allah took you so soon, he loved you more dearly than any one of us can imagine, in gardens of heaven where the flowers will blossom.

You will reunite eternally with your loves ones, your family you have left behind will forever keep you in their hearts and minds.

Memories of you we have to look back on, may Allah give us all Sabr to carry on.

A heart of gold, a beautiful soul, that contagious smile, that laughter that will echo.

That caring nature and love, a helping hand you gave to all, these were some of the traits that were known to all.

We will miss you all dearly, there is an empty place in all our hearts.

May Allah unite us all in heaven I pray sincerely.

You will never be forgotten.”

TOM SCULLY

Warrington Guardian:

FORMER pub landlord Tom Scully, 78, from Penketh, died at Meadowside Care Home on April 5.

Tom was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was one of six children and left behind his wife Margaret, daughter Carolyn, grandchildren Lucy, Lewis and Jenson, as well as a brother Billy and sister Betty. 

He was a lead vocalist of bands from the 50s until 1980s when he went into the pub business. 

The 78-year-old was the custodian of several pubs including the Hop Pole in the town centre and Rylands Recreation Club in Orford, in the 1980s and 1990s.

He was also a popular compere at Greenalls Social Club.

Loved by many, he had a great sense of humour and had many stories to tell of his Liverpool youth.

His family said: “Dad we love and miss you dearly. We are heartbroken that it has been one year on April 5 since you left. 

Words cannot describe what we have gone through this past year however I am so fortunate to have spent your final days by your side. 

We know you are in a better place and hope you are doing what you do best and entertaining the family and friends who you are with. 

We will honour your life the way you would want us to. 

You were the best husband, dad and granddad we could ask for. May you find peace with Alison. 

Missing you is not getting any easier. 

Sending you all our love xxxx”

MATHEW LEISEGANG

Warrington Guardian:

MATTHEW Leisegang, 31, from Lymm, died on January 29.

He was a loving husband and devoted daddy to Oscar and a baby girl due in the summer. 

He worked as the HR and recruitment manager for Home Instead senior care Altrincham, and was a dedicated volunteer for Warrington junior football league.

His family said: “We will treasure the memories we made and mourn the ones we were robbed of too soon.

Your legacy will live on through your children and all those whose lives you touched daily. 

We love you forever and when times get hard we will ‘look at the stars and look how they shine for you’. 

Sleep well sweetheart, until we meet again.

GARRIE WILLIAMS

Warrington Guardian:

GARRIE Williams was 56 when he died after contracting Covid-19.

He was a well-liked and respected member of Warrington’s Co-op Funeralcare team and, in his many years of service, he assisted countless people in the town and other neighbouring districts with the funeral of a loved one. Garrie was committed to his roles and responsibilities and through conversations with his colleagues, it had always been clear to them that he had an even greater devotion which was focused on his family

As colleagues we felt we knew his family personally from the way Garrie spoke about them all the time.

He was so proud of them all.
They meant the world to him especially Marg; his wife and soul-mate, his sons Ryan and Ross, step-children Amanda and Brad, grandchildren Melissa, Selby, Louise, Lucy and Robyn, and siblings Barrie (who also works within funeral services), Jane and Julie.

Without his presence, the workplace has never been the same but such was his positive influence on those who knew him as a friend at work, that they continue to remember and honour him in all that they continue to do in response to the needs of bereaved.

Garrie was an absolute gentleman, a pleasure to know.

Garrie was very highly thought of by the local clergy, nursing homes and mortuary staff.

His colleagues hope that the time will soon come when his family and friends will be able to gather in less restrictive times to celebrate a lovely man and the lovely life he enjoyed.

Gaz, you are in our thoughts every day and will never be forgotten.

We all miss and love you.

JOHN DAVIES

Warrington Guardian:

JOHN Davies, 77, from Runcorn, died on January 6 in the intensive care unit of Warrington Hospital.

My dad John was still fit and well. 

On December 20 he took ill and was taken into hospital.

We got the call to say they were transferring him to ICU where my sister already was, but my dad didn’t know this as we didn’t want to worry him.

On transferring my dad to ICU he was put in the next bed to my sister, so they had each other, which was nice as they spent Christmas Day together which we are thankful for. 

My sister left ICU and transferred to ward A7. 

One week later on January 4 we had the horrendous news dad was being put on life support. On January 6 the most horrifying news came that we had to turn his life support off. 

Me and my twin sister were the ones having to say the words no family are even ready to say. 

John had eight living children and was married to our mum Mary who passed 12 years ago.

Dad was the life and soul of every party he went to. 

He lived for his children and grandchildren, always our kids’ pick up man for school runs which he loved doing, seeing his grandkids every day. 

My dad was our life. 

Someone so kind and always there if you needed him no matter what. 

He loved going on family holidays and holidays with his friends, loved going to the Queen of Hearts pub on a Saturday night.

You always knew when dad was in your house, he always made such a mess just making a cup of tea. 

John was always the life and soul of every party. 

Always the first up dancing getting everyone else up to join him. 

Dad you will be truly missed by us all, never a day goes by where we don’t think of you. 

As a family we are still in shock that Covid took your life far too soon. 

We love and miss you every day – fly high with the angels and give our mum a kiss from us all. 

ARTHUR HAILEY

Warrington Guardian:

ARTHUR Leslie Hailey, known to everyone as Les, from Padgate, died at Warrington Hospital on November 9, aged 83, on his wedding anniversary. 

Husband to Catherine, he was a father to one son and four daughters, and had nine grandchildren who he loved so much. 

He loved his pigeon and was a member of the Latchford club. 

He loved driving the minibus and helping adults with additional needs. 

He always made people smile.

Les passed away peacefully with his very much loved wife Cath by his side. He was loved by many and touched so many of our lives. 

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

We are devastated that you have gone but have everlasting memories of you that we will never forget. 

We will keep you in our hearts, until we meet again. 

We love you.

DAVID PREECE

Warrington Guardian:

DAVID Malcolm Preece, 81, from Great Sankey, died on April 6 at Warrington Hospital, ward A7.

Originally Malcolm lived in Abercrave, South Wales, growing up and becoming a coal miner.

After going to the Isle of Man to watch the TT races, Malcolm then met Jean and so began the long distance romance that resulted in him moving to Warrington only six months after they had met.

Malcolm and Jean settled down to married life together and had two children, Diane and David.

Malcolm with his family made Warrington his home for 60 years and worked hard for a living at Peter Stubbs, Polycell Tiles, Thames Board Mills, Fairclough Flour Mill and Memory Lane Cakes.

Malcolm enjoyed his rugby and loved going to France to watch Warrington play Catalan Dragons.

He was suddenly taken ill at home and was admitted to ICU at Warrington Hospital. 

His family never got to see him again due to the terrible coronavirus sweeping the world. 

It was this virus that sadly took our big strong Welshman away from all the people that loved him three days after his birthday.

Sadly you were taken too soon and we were unable to say how much we loved you or to say goodbye. 

We will never forget you and will love and remember you always.

JOHN LONG

Warrington Guardian:

JOHN Robert Long, 69, from Orford, died on November 1 at Warrington Hospital.

John was born in Warrington but grew up in Manchester. 

He was a dad to three children and had six grandchildren. 

He was employed at various places – Monks Hall, Sterling Cables, and then Weir in Manchester and later working in security for British Telecom. 

John enjoyed travelling, going as far afield as New Zealand and Las Vegas, but had also spent many holidays at Haven sites with his children and grandchildren. 

In his younger years he enjoyed working on cars and watching live music. 

He also assisted with some special effects for Granada television and enjoyed meeting the actors and presenters there.

Dad, you were owed many more years of life, not a day goes by when we don’t think and speak of you. 

Sadly our memories are all we have now and we will remember the good times.

HELEN SNAPE

Warrington Guardian:

HELEN Margaret Snape, 52, from Appleton, died on October 6 at Warrington Hospital.

Helen was always a family person who loved spending time with her family, friends and work colleagues. 

She adored going on sunny holidays and making memories. 

Helen was always happy, smiling with an infectious smile that lit up the room. 

She has left the most wonderful memories and we will always be extremely grateful for the time we had with her.

Helen was a loving person and will be so dearly missed by her husband, daughter, mum, brother, all family and friends. 

She will be remembered for her personality that touched so many lives. 

She will always be so loved and we will always cherish the memories we have of her.

TONY NICHOLSON

Warrington Guardian:

TONY Nicholson, 60, from Great Sankey, died in Warrington Hospital on November 1.

Tony leaves behind his wife Karon, two children Hannah and Joseph, and a new grandson, Leonardo. 

Born and bred in Warrington, he had many family and friends who he loved to socialise with. He was a keen golfer and was a member of the Tetley Walker Golf Society.
He had many other interests including art, astronomy, DIY and travelling around the world.

Tony will be sorely missed by all of his family and friends. 

He had a great sense of humour and was a very sociable person. 

His family and friends were the centre of his life and he was the centre of theirs. 

He leaves a huge gap in our lives and our many social gatherings will never be the same

without him.

WILLIAM SYERS

Warrington Guardian:

WILLIAM (Billy) Syers, 72, from Orford, died in November 2020.

Billy sadly lost his battle to Covid-19 in November leaving behind wife Margaret of 53 years, two sons Philip, Karl and a daughter Lorraine. 

Billy also had six grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren and great companion (dog) Skye.

Billy left behind a devoted wife and family leaving a big hole in all our hearts, taken from us all far too soon due to Covid-19. 

Billy is remembered every day with much love and happy memories. 

Skye misses her dad taking her on long walks. Life will never be the same without you, forever loved and in our thoughts. 

Rest in peace.

JENNIFER LAVIN

Warrington Guardian:

JENNIFER Lavin, 77, from Woolston, died on January 20 at Warrington Hospital.

Jen, my mum, lived a full life.

She loved playing bowls and going to widowers club. 

She enjoyed holidays abroad and regularly travelled to Australia to see her son and daughter.

She was a widow, had three children and 10 great grandchildren.

Her family meant everything to her and she would do anything for them.

My mum Jen was loved and cherished by her family. 

She will be deeply missed by us all, her dry wit and short temper are the things you take for granted.

We all wish that we could have her back and have a few more precious moments with her. 

Lots of love mum, we will meet again.

Special thanks to NHS staff at Warrington Hospital. The ICU staff treated my mum with the upmost care and dedication.

JEANETTE BURKEY

Warrington Guardian:

JEANETTE Burkey, 84, from Penketh, died on November 8 in Warrington Hospital.

Our mum was born in 1936 in Old Swan Liverpool where she grew up. 

She met our dad when she worked in the office at the Automatic. 

She got married to our dad Kenneth in 1957 and bought a new house in Halton View Widnes where they had three children. 

They moved to Penketh a couple of years later and lived there ever since. 

Our mum was the most loveliest and kindest person anyone could have asked for. 

She loved her family so much, we had a fantastic childhood with lots of lovely memories to cherish. 

She has left behind her husband Ken, her children Paul, Gillian and Alan, grandchildren

Sarah, Adam and Ethan, and great grandchildren Ellie, Maysie, Nylah, Harry and Lilly, who was born on December 23 – not long after our mum passed away, so sadly she never got to meet her.

Mum, the moment I wake each morning to start a new day but the pain of losing you will never go away. 

I go about the things I have to do and the hours pass I think again of you. 

I want to call you and just hear your voice then remember you’re not there and now my heart cries, just to see you again to tell you goodbye. 

To say mum I love you and I always will and hope that much of you in me you’ve instilled. 

There’s not a day goes by that I don’t cry for you and there is an ache within my heart that will never go away. Heartbroken, we love and miss you so much xxx

STEVEN KING

Warrington Guardian:

STEVEN King, 65, from Padgate, died on April 17.

He was a devoted and loving partner dad and granddad.

Dad you are missed every minute of every day, you left a hole in our hearts. This terrible virus took you from us. Love you dad, from Mike.

DAVID HOPWOOD

Warrington Guardian:

DAVID Hopwood, 71, from Bewsey, died on February 10 at Warrington Hospital.

David was a great man and loved by many. He was a big Warrington Wolves fan and held a season ticket for many years. 

He attended all games home and away including Wembley.

He lived in Bewsey for a long time and was well looked out for by all his amazing neighbours. 

Dave battled cancer/strokes and more and fought every one of them off but unfortunately Covid beat him.

He has left behind his partner Brenda of 15 years, his son Andrew and his only grandson, as well as extended family and many friends.

He was a lovely genuine man and would do anything to help anyone.

Dave had no voice box and couldn’t talk but he always made friends wherever he went.
He was kind-hearted and would do anything for anyone. He was loved by so many people and will be sadly missed. 

Life will not be the same without you Dave, may you rest in peace now xx

KATE COSTELLO

Warrington Guardian:

KATE Costello, 58, from Padgate, died on November 11 at Warrington Hospital.

Mum’s life revolved around her children and grandchildren. She was poorly for a very long time before catching the virus, but she didn’t let that stop her from being the most kind, funny and loving person she always was.

Mum, we miss you so very much, you left behind a lot of people who cherished the ground you walked on, your children and grandchildren and Porsha love you so, so much.

Our hearts hurt at the fact we will never see your face, hear your voice smell you or feel your touch.

We hope wherever you are, you are pain-free with your mum and sisters. 

We love you so much mamma bear.

Until we meet again xx

OLIVE SMITH

Warrington Guardian:

OLIVE Smith, from Paddington, died in April, aged 89.

She was the widow of George Smith, mum to Elaine and Beverley, and nannie to Natalie, her only grandchild.

Olive had been married for 62 years and was widowed three years previously.

Her main employment for many years was at the Box Works in Warrington.

She loved ballroom dancing, sewing and gardening.

Olive and George had travelled the world, visiting more than 40 countries.

She had a very happy life and will be very much missed.

ALBERT BURNS

Warrington Guardian:

ALBERT Burns, 78, from Orford, died at Warrington Hospital on July 2.

Albert was born in Stockton-on-Tees but lived in Warrington and was loved greatly by his partner Christine, three daughters, five grandchildren and extended family, along with his beloved pets Charlie and Max. 

He was a regular at The Albion and had plenty of friends from both there and other pubs in Warrington town.

RIP to a one in a million partner, dad, granddad and friend. 

We’ll never stop loving and missing you.

JOHN LAWRENCE

Warrington Guardian:

JOHN Lawrence, 71, from Great Sankey, died in October in Leighton Hospital, Crewe, after being transferred from Warrington ICU.

John was married to Doreen for 44 years, he had three children and four grandchildren. 

John was retired after working for 55 years of his life as a HGV driver. 

He loved socialising and holidays with family and friends and loved nothing more than relaxing in the garden with a beer.

He loved watching his grandsons play football on a Sunday afternoon, John was a lifelong Everton supporter.

All our hearts were broken when you sadly left us, you were taken so quickly and far too soon. 

There was so much more we all had to do and see.

Life has not been the same without you and you are missed by so many.

You were such a kind-hearted, gentle and caring man who would do anything for anyone, you adored your wife, children and grandchildren. 

You were loved by so many and will never be forgotten, love and miss you always x

JIM CORLESS

Warrington Guardian:

JIM Corless, from Padgate, died aged 75 on Easter Sunday.

He had lived in Padgate for the past 40 years with his wife Marie and leaves behind two daughters Jacqui and Anita, along with three granddaughters, Lauren, Erin and Cerys.

“If love could have saved him, he never would have died.”

JEAN MOLPHY

Warrington Guardian:

JEAN Molphy, 79, from Woolston, died in Warrington Hospital on January 26.

Jean worked at Crosfields where Jean Heesom met John her husband. 

They were married for 60 years and were a devoted couple.

They had three daughters, five grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

A beautiful, loving and caring wife, mum, grandmother and great grandmother, sadly missed every single day.

NORMAN WHITE

Warrington Guardian:

NORMAN White, from Latchford, died on April 26 aged 90 at Victoria House care home.

Norman was a loving husband to June, and they were married for 62 years. 

A dad, granddad and great granddad, Norman loved visits from all of the kids. 

He is missed by all every day.

Our brightest star in the sky, we know you are looking over all of us up there reunited with your daughter Bev, who was also taken from us too soon. 

We love and miss you always, from all of your family xxx

ALICE WEATHERBY

Warrington Guardian:

ALICE Weatherby died aged 97 at Gainsborough House Nursing Home on May 5.

Alice was born in Keighley, Yorkshire on January 28, 1923, where she grew up. 

She first worked in the cotton mills then, during the war, came to Warrington with her mum to work in the munitions factory in Croft. 

She met Albert, who was working at UKAEA in Risley.

They married in March 1952 and had two daughters, Janet and Diane. 

They lived firstly in Culcheth, then Penketh and finally Appleton before retiring to Llandudno where they lived for more than 20 years. 

Alice returned to Warrington after Albert died aged 84. 

She spent many happy years living in Holcroft Grange in Culcheth and more recently Gainsborough House, where she passed away after contracting Covid. 

She leaves behind her loving family of two daughters, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, and is greatly missed by all. 

The best tribute to Alice has to be the poem written by her great granddaughter, Layla, aged 10, which was read at her funeral service:
“Great Grandma, the twinkle in my eye. 
You put a smile on my face, and everyone else’s.
There was always a big hug inside of you. 
“You would love a tea and biscuit, but most of all, a little wine. 
“You loved the blooming of flowers and the smell of sweet perfume. 
“You loved the outdoors, and to pose for the camera. You loved the sea and your family too. 
But most of all you loved us, and we love you too.”

SANDRA BRADBURY

Warrington Guardian:

SANDRA Bradbury, 65, from Latchford, died on February 16 at Alder Hey Hospital.

We lost my dad on January 8. 

My mum cared for my dad the last two years.

She was an unbelievable wife, mother and nan.

She put everyone first. 

Our hearts are broken, you have left a huge hole. 

You tried so hard to stay with us. 

We are so proud, you are so loved and so missed. 

Life will never be the same.

EILEEN WOOD

Warrington Guardian:

RETIRED nurse Eileen Wood died on November 12 after contracting coronavirus.

The 96-year-old, from Latchford, passed away at a care home in Shrewbury.

She trained at hospitals in London during the Second World War and survived three bombings during the Blitz while caring for wounded soldiers and civilians who had been injured during blasts. 

Eileen returned home to Warrington after the war and lived on Evelyn Street with husband her Charles and their three children, working at the Victoria Park Maternity Home and Warrington Hospital.

After retiring, she moved to Shropshire in order to live closer to daughter Angela.

She will be ‘greatly missed’ by her children, grandchildren and great grand- children.

ELLEN BEADLES

Warrington Guardian:

GREEN Park Care Home in Penketh gave resident Ellen Letitia Beadles a touching send-off after she died four days after her 85th birthday.

Known as Letty, she passed away with Covid on April 16.

Before her funeral her hearse passed the Southwold Crescent care home – where staff lined up outside and clapped 

WAL PAYNTER

Warrington Guardian:

WAL Paynter, 82, from Great Sankey, died at Whittle Hall care home.

A gentle, kind and funny person to many, he was happily married to his beloved Mo loved and lived for their family. 

He was the original ‘man from the pru’ in his work life and a very fit gym instructor in the forces in his past. Our dad was our hero. 

He went through quite a lot before finally being taken by this cruel pandemic. 
A character most could have a laugh with and admired by many.

DOUGLAS FAIRBROTHER

Warrington Guardian:

Douglas Fairbrother, 74, from Culcheth, died on December 12 at Warrington Hospital.

Douglas was a loving husband, son, grandad and great grandad. He was there for everyone when they needed him and was a big part of his local church. He will be greatly missed and forever loved and in our hearts. Rest in peace I hope we do you proud.

We will always miss you. 

But we have so many wonderful memories to hang on to. You were an amazing role model, a husband, dad, grandad, great grandad and a friend. Your guidance and love will carry us through . We love you forever and always. Xoxo

ALAN TAYLOR

Warrington Guardian:

THE heartbroken family of a caring 96-year-old man paid tribute to him after he died from coronavirus.

Culcheth resident Alan Taylor – who was the retired managing director of Taylor Business Park Ltd, Cheswick & Wright Ltd and Lathom Engineering Ltd – died on April 3 last year.

Grandson Paul Taylor said: “We’ll remember him as a wonderful man that was giving, caring and always wanted to make sure that his family were okay.

“He was calling everyone on the Thursday when he seemed to be getting better and was looking forward to coming home. It was such a shame when Covid-19 caught up with him the morning after.

“The whole family is very thankful for the caring team at Warrington Hospital in the various wards he visited during his stay there, especially those that were with him at the end in ward A7.”

Alan founded Taylor Industrial Estate Ltd, which became Taylor Business Park Ltd, and was formerly involved with F Taylor & Sons (Liverpool) Ltd and F Taylor & Sons (Manchester) Ltd.

Hydracranes, Jumbo cranes and various special vehicles, which were all generally hydraulically operated, were manufactured in the firm’s Salford premises. They were the first of their kind and sold around the world.

GEORGE ROUSE
Warrington Guardian:

George Rouse, 73, from Penketh, died at Warrington Hospital on October 9
Originally from Dorset, George lived in Warrington for more than 40 years with his wife Pam. 

On April 4 last year, they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary during lockdown. This was the last day that George spent in the family home. George was a family man, doing everything he could to support his wife, children (Caroline and Chris), son in law (Gavin) and grandchildren (Ellie and Chloe)

A fun and loving husband, dad and grandad missed by us all xxx

ANNETTE FAHEY

Warrington Guardian:

Annette Fahey, 53, from Bruche/town centre, died at Warrington Hospital on January 27

Annette was such a fun, loving person. Her family were her everything. She wasn't shy and would just tell you how it was. She had a small, but close family, who she will be missed by all.

Annette will be well and truly missed. She had quite an impact on many lives, and will forever live on in our memories. We all love you so much. Sweet dreams, your forever in our thoughts.

DARREN WARLOW

Warrington Guardian:

Darren Warlow, 52, from Birchwood, died on January 24 at Warrington Hospital

Darren was a loving and caring family man! A husband, dad, stepdad, grandad, brother, uncle, friend but, most of all an all round amazing person! Darren worked for the Ombudsman services, he will always be remembered for his willingness to help anyone and of course for his waistcoats. Family was everything to Darren, his wife, his four children, two grandchildren and dog too. 

He never let a day go by without making sure they all knew how much he loved them all.

Forever our angel! Smiles, laughs and memories to last a lifetime. The love you gave and the happiness you brought to so many people will always be remembered. Although you may no longer be here with us, your love still fills our hearts each and everyday.

ELIZABETH GREEN

Warrington Guardian:

Elizabeth (Lil) Green, 71, from Penketh, died at Warrington hospital

Lil was a lovely caring lady with heart of gold who is missed by everyone she was outgoing loved her family and enjoyed her daily routine.

We love and miss you tremendously Lil. Still feels so surreal.

My heart breaking sweet, so glad I made your wish come true and got you reunited with your mum and dad xxx.

FREDRICK CLARE

Warrington Guardian:

Frederick Clare, 78, from Orford, died at Whittle hall Care Home

A respected and well liked police officer in Warrington for 30 years. 

Fred met his wife Margaret at the Alliance Box Works, whilst working as a painter and decorator. 

He married at 21 and they had 56 years of wonderful married life together. They went on to have two children, Jason and Emma, both now married adding Gemma and Lee to the family. Next came five grandchildren, Taylor, Freya, Harry, Eleanor and Jessica.

Fred was the centre of the family and was loved by absolutely everyone. His hobbies were his fishing, Warrington Wolves and being with all his family. He will be greatly missed by all his family and friends.

Fred was a wonderful, loving husband to Margaret. Fantastic father to Jason and Emma and father in law to Gemma and Lee.

And adored grandad to Taylor, Freya, Harry, Eleanor and Jessica. Thank you for everything you taught us and showing us the way. We will always love you and miss you so much, godbless xxxx

GARY CASWELL

Warrington Guardian:

Gary Cassell, 62, from Chapelford, died on October 10 2020

He was an amazing grandad to my three children Ray, Kai and Alfie. He was a medically retired veteran. He served in the army in the Prince of Wales regiment (known as the cherry pickers).

Life and soul of the party and will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him

I miss you more than words can say, every minute every hour of every day. I love you dad, you knew that and we both shown it in our own way. Forever in my heart xxx.

JAY ROBERTS

Warrington Guardian:

Jay Roberts, 48, from Padgate, died on April 1 at ICU at Warrington Hospital

Jay grew up in Padgate and created a life full of love with his Julie, their two daughters Kayleigh and Charlie and he absolutely doted on his two granddaughters Layla and Jorgie. 

Jay was and still is spoken about by many as a gentle giant and a true friend.

He contracted the virus after a holiday last March and later spent one week in ICU at Warrington Hospital before sadly passing away, leaving a gap in his girls hearts forever.

He is loved, missed and spoken about every single day. 

A message from his girls: Don’t worry Dad you will get the send off you deserve – to celebrate your precious life in true Jay style! We love you, always forever.
He was known by his friends as “Big Jay” or “The Silverback”.

CHRISTINE LOMAX

Warrington Guardian:

Christine Lomax, 57, from Whittle Hall, died on July 7 at Whittle Hall Care Home

Christine also known as Tina and grew up in Orford with her parents Harold and Betty and her siblings Pam and Pauline. 

She was an amazing mum to three children Joanna, Laura and Christopher, a wonderful nanny to her two grandchildren Donnie and Charlie and a loving companion to her best friend Dave. 

She dedicated her life to caring for her family and is greatly missed every day.

Words cannot describe how much we love and miss you. You always lit up a room with your smile and made people laugh all the time. We wish with all of our hearts that you were still here with us to give out your warm loving hugs. You are forever in our hearts,

You are our sunshine. We love you to the moon and back. All our love until we meet again. Jo, Chris, Laura, Donnie, Charlie, Dave, Pauline and Pam xxxxxxxx

ALLAN DANIELS

Warrington Guardian:

Allan Peter Daniels, 73, Westbrook, died on November 17 at The Countess of Chester following a transfer from warrington Hospital

Allan was married for 51 years to his adored wife Anne Maria.

A father of three, a foster father of three, a grandfather of seven and a wonderful gentleman with a beaming smile and the biggest of hugs. Born in Liverpool however lived in Warrington for the past 50 years. Alan worked in Fords in Speke and for 17years in Asda however found his true calling in life when he became a foster parent caring for many children following his retirement. 

A committed Liverpool supporter, his life was his family, extended family and his holidays to Anglesey. His wife Anne, whom he married at 21 was his love and best friend and they always enjoyed travelling the world including holidays to Australia, New Zealand, Italy and America. 

Dad was also loved by all his pets including his two cats Marley and Arthur, he always hugged and talked to them and they were his best friends. He was one of the best.

He took a few cups of love.He took one tablespoon of patience.One teaspoons of generosity,One pint of kindness.He took one quarter of laughter,One pinch of concern,And then, he mixed willingness with happiness.He added lots of faith,And he stirred it up well.Then he spread it over a span of a lifetime,And he served it to each and every deserving person he met. Goodbye for now Alan, Dad and grandad, we will meet again. You’ll never walk alone. Thank you for everything.

LES HAILEY

Warrington Guardian:

Les Hailey, 84, Lowton died in November 2020 in hospital

Les was a real family man, loved his family and would do anything for them. 

He was full of fun and would fill a room with his personality. He also had a passion for pigeon racing which he’d first learned from his granddad who lived in Widnes, plus following Widnes rugby league. 

He also used to enjoy fishing and playing darts.

He visited me (his sister) and my family in New Zealand in 1998 and 2003 and managed to get a coach of people doing the Hokey Kokey. I was very fortunate with my family to visit Les and his family over the Christmas New Year period 2019/20 arriving home just a month before lockdown. Happy, happy memories.

Les, one special person.You were taken from us much too suddenly by this virus. You were a great brother, brother-in-law, uncle and great uncle. We miss the phone calls and your loud voice and laughter, but most of all we miss you heaps and heaps. 

We will remember you always . RIP. Pauline, Walter, Lisa, Terence and Emilie.

VAL AND HEFIN WILLIAMS >

Warrington Guardian:

Val and Hefin Williams, 74 and 80, from Great Sankey died in Warrington ITU. Hefin on March 30, Val on April 10.

Mum Valerie was born in Liverpool, Dad was from a small village called Morfa Nefyn on the Llyn Peninsula North Wales.

Mum and dad were foster parents when we were growing up fostering many children, dad worked at Manchester Airport, after he retired he worked as a greeter at our local Asda store which he loved meeting everyone, everybody seemed to know dad.

Mum went on to be a carer in the community which she did until two years ago, only retiring at 72 she cared for people for 30 years.

Dad up until his death was working as a volunteer at our local hospital, a job he loved again helping out on the help desk.   

They were the rock to our family, leaving behind four children and six grandchildren, they were loved by all their friends and were the life and soul of every party.

They loved a good knees up and were never off the dance floor at their local social club, they are missed immensely by everyone that knew them.

Valerie and Hefin were my parents, they lost their lives within 11 days of each other to Covid 19, they were much loved parents to myself Andrea, Nicola, Marc and Sarah, doting grandparents to Chloe, Scott, Jamie, Charlotte, Oliver and Alfie. They are missed beyond words.

MARY HUNTER
Warrington Guardian:

Mary Hunter, 85, from Latchford, died in Warrington Hospital on April 13

Mum was a retired nurse who loved her job. She was a devoted mum to her children and beloved gran/great gran. She loved travelling, her and dad had many holidays abroad. She loved her knitting and crocheting, she baked all sorts of cakes, buns, pies etc, she loved life with us

My darling mum I still can't believe you are no longer here, it's like a nightmare I can't wake from. Our last 3 days and nights together I treasure, holding your hand, kissing your beautiful face and watching you slip away are etched in my mind. You fought it but you were just to tired and couldn't fight anymore. I love and miss you so so much my life will never be the same.

EVELYN SILK 

Warrington Guardian:

Evie Silk sadly died on June 20 after being admitted to Warrington Hospital at the end of April due to a fall at home.

It was here that she contracted coronavirus, aged 88.

Evie was widowed in 2010, but lived for her grandchildren and great grandchildren, two of which lived next door to her in Stockton Heath.

She saw and spoke to them every day, and regularly chatted with her other relatives through FaceTime.

Before she retired, she was supervisor at the telephone exchange and had also been a trainer.