Heart-warming tribute to 'hard working' Chesterfield businessman who died of cancer

Richard Woodhead passed away at his home in Walton, on Monday, April 6. His passing swiftly came only three weeks after his diagnosis with an aggressive form of cancer.

His son, Jonathan Woodhead, has described his father as a very generous and hard working person who often worked at least six days a week in order to keep his business going.

Richard owned the family business based in Chesterfield, which the family has owned since the 1844 until it’s sale in 2013. His commitment and devotion to his family and the town of Chesterfield was unwavering.

Jonathan Said: “His work ethic was something that really shone through, he helped provide the best possible start to life for his family that he could. The notion of being a business owner and making millions is far from the truth, he worked incredibly hard for everything we had as a family.

“He was lovely person, he was very much a part of the fabric of the town, when he did have some spare time, his social life consisted of being an active member at Walton Golf club and what was the North Derbyshire Squash Club.

“He was also involved in the Chamber of commerce and the federation for small businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. When my father wasn’t working, he loved visiting the mountains in Switzerland and France where he would occasionally take part in some winter sports activities.

“I think the most shocking part of all this is how quickly cancer took him from us. He had no serious underlying health issues which simply highlights the aggressive nature of the cancer, that goes to show just how things can catch you unawares, and that would be a message to anyone reading this.

“He sold his Cafe in 2013 and retired from that point on. He wanted to enjoy his retirement and go on many other holidays to different destinations with my mum. This swift nature of his passing a reminder that we should cherish every moment with those we love.