Tributes paid to former heating engineer and businessman Bill Davey, 79

Bill Davey, 79, of Skelmersdale Road, Clacton, died at Colchester Hospital on January 11.

Bill was born in the resort in 1942 and lived in Warwick Road for many years.

As a youngsters he was a keen footballer and played for local and county teams.

He met his wife Anita while working for the Co-op in Old Road, in his late teens.

After gaining an apprenticeship with A.S. Austin in Victory Road, Clacton, the couple were married on September 5, 1964.

Bill went on to become a well respected and successful heating and plumbing engineer.

Following the retirement of his boss Jimmy Gibbs, Bill then set up on his own firm - and was proud to be one of few engineers who were still able to “wipe a joint”.

After nine years in businesses on his own, along with Paul Gibbs, he set up the Heating Warehouse in Oxford Road, Clacton.

Bill remained the managing director of the thriving company for almost 39 years.

Bill, who was captain of Clacton Golf Club in 2010, was also a good golfer and played in county and local teams, winning many cups and trophies over the years.

His wife Anita said: “Unfortunately, over the last three years his health declined and he was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in June last year, and was taken into Colchester Hospital on the December 2 with a septic arthritic knee.

“He was in there for 40 days, and sadly lost his courageously fought battle on January 11.

“Bill will be deeply missed by us all.

“The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for all the care and support given to Bill and his family by all the doctors and staff at Aldham ward Colchester, the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge, the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis team, British Oxygen and our family, friends and relatives.”

Bill leaves his beloved wife Anita, sons Andrew and Mark, as well as four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A funeral service is expected to take place towards the end of February.