Family pays tribute to 'wonderful dad and grandad' (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Clacton builder Don Smith was wonderful family man and keen angler

1:00pm Thursday 10th January 2013 in News

TRIBUTES have been paid to a "wonderful" family man who has died after a long illness.

Builder and keen fisherman Don Smith, of the Esplanade, Holland on Sea, passed away on December 29, aged 67.

Mr Smith moved to the area 45 years ago and opened the Forge metal-working business in Thorpe le Soken.

His career changed tack after he built his family's first home in Holland on Sea and he set up JP Developments.

He continued to run the business until ill health forced him to retire but the firm has stayed in the family.

Mr Smith had five children and seven grandchildren.

Wife Janice said: "He was so full of life and had lots of friends.

"He was a good husband, a wonderful dad and lovely grandad."

She added: "He will be deeply missed by all his family and friends."

A funeral service takes place tomorrow at 11.30am at St Paul's Church, Clacton.