JD DID NOT HAVE TO FORK OUT FOR THIS LIFT FOR HIS FUNERAL

A Plympton man has made his final journey in an unusual fashion. John Dear, 69, was transported to his funeral by one of his own fork lift trucks after he died just before Christmas.John was the managing director of JD Plant Services and passed away on Thursday, December 20, after a battle with cancer.

John’s career started in the Army, where he served in Northern Ireland, before working for Wrigley’s and owning a fish-and-chip shop.Following this he worked for a couple of fork lift truck companies. when he found himself redundant, he decided to start his own company, JD Plant Services.

Trading from its base at Lee Mill Industrial Estate, John grew the business into the success it is today.

A family spokesman said: “John had a big character and was very well known and loved by so many people in his neighbourhood of Plympton, his family, friends, colleagues and business contacts.

“He is survived by his wife Christine, sons Marcus and Nicholas, daughters Natalie and Leanne and many grandchildren.”

John’s funeral took place on Friday, January 11 at Plympton St Mary’s church, with John arriving at church carried on a fork lift truck supplied by his own company.

The church service, which was attended by around 220 mourners, was followed by a private cremation and a walk at the Plympton Conservative Club.

Donations in John’s memory for  Cancer Research UK may be sent to Walter C. Parson at Plympton PL7 1QW.