Tribute has been paid to the director of a family company in Spalding who died last week.
John Willson had followed his father, Eric, into the funeral directing business which remains in the town’s Winsover Road.
His parents, Sheila and Eric took over the firm, with John joining 40 years ago, and his mum has recently marked her 90th birthday.
John met his future wife Carol outside the Red Lion in Spalding, and the couple married in 1981.
Their first son Darren was born in 1983, followed a year later by Gavin, and both are now directors of the company.
“Dad will be sadly missed by all who knew him and he will always be remembered as a special husband, dad, brother and grandad.
“He always had time for a chat and was known for his very long jokes,” said Darren.
John’s brother Simon was also involved in the business and later moved to Australia with his family, but has returned. Coincidentally, John was known as ‘Wombat’ during his days at the former Gleed Boys’ School, Spalding, and the name stuck.
Along with Carol and their two sons, John also leaves grandchildren Brooke, Alex, Jacob, Isabel, Eleanor and Blossom.
His funeral is due to be held at South Lincs Crematorium, Surfleet, on Friday, November 29 at 1pm.
