‘The life and soul of a party’: Tributes paid to Chesterfield businessman who has died

David Shires, who founded Sheepbridge-based Shires Crane Hire in the early-1970s, passed away at Ashgate Hospicecare on March 22 following a long illness. He was 82.

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David’s company was involved in many jobs locally, including the installation of the sculpture at Chesterfield’s Horns Bridge roundabout and the placing of artwork at Chatsworth House.

David's daughter Lisa with the tribute she has made in her dad's memory.

His funeral will take place next week and his daughter Lisa has created a wonderful tribute to him – a wreath in the form of one of his cranes, complete with a picture of David behind the wheel.

His funeral procession is also expected to be followed by a crane.

Lisa told the Derbyshire Times: “My dad was a wonderful man and we all have so many happy memories of him.

“I called him ‘the oldest swinger in town who never gave up’ – he loved to party.

“He was such a hard worker and he adored his company, which is 49-years-old this year.”

Shires Crane Hire, which will continue operating, posted a touching tribute to David on its Facebook page.

The post described David, of Ashgate, as ‘our anchor and rock’.

“He was, as many have said, the life and soul of a party, and a well-respected friend and businessman,” it added.

“We would like to thank all those associated with Shires Crane Hire for the support and loyalty you have shown.”

Commenting on the post, one woman described David as an ‘incredibly hard-working gent’.

She added: “His passing will leave a hole which will be hard to fill.”

Another said: “RIP Dave – such a sad loss.

“Another good old lad gone.”

David's hobbies and interests included walking, squash, tennis, rugby and crosswords.

He leaves behind his children Lisa, Joanna, David, Louise and Josh, eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

A private family funeral service will take place at Chesterfield Crematorium on Tuesday afternoon.

People who would like to view the service can visit www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view – the order ID is 88551 and the password is xngvazqb

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