Tribute to ex-Wrexham brewery worker John Richards

John Arthur Richards died at home in Wrexham, on December 26, 2022, aged 82.

Son Karl Richards and daughter Christina Richards, have fond memories of their dad, who they describe as someone who "always had time for everyone else".

John, born in Rhosddu, later moving to Coed Aben, will have been known to many for his time working for Border Brewery, later Marstons, where he was for more than 30 years. But even in retirement, he continued to work, delivering for a local pharmacy, florist and even taking on a role as a caretaker.

John Richards in his Marstons days.

His children said: "He was a non-stop, hard worker, never one to sit still. He would do anything for anyone."

Over the years, John had various roles, from paperboy to barman in several of the area's pubs.

He was also at one time president of the Wrexham and District Darts League.

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A lover of karaoke, he could often be heard singing at the Horse and Jockey pub in Wrexham. He even put his vocals to good use, creating a covers CD to help raise funds for Nightingale House Hospice.

Karl and Christina said: "He loved singing, and had a great voice.

"He was a sociable person, and enjoyed spending time with other people."

Cheers, John Richards.

John, a Wrexham AFC fan, would attend Mecca bingo and went out regularly to play dominoes.

Sharing the news to the Leader's 'Local Bygones' Facebook page, several people passed on their condolences, with many remembering John themselves.

Mike Palmer said: "Sorry for your loss. Really nice guy. I knew John from the darts, a good singer too."

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Keith Jones wrote: "RIP John. I've known John since I was a kid, he was a mate of my dad, Reg Jones. I also worked at Border Brewery. Really nice guy, so sorry to hear this sad news."

Tracy Jones said: "RIP 'Uncle Johnny Richards' as I knew him. He was a friend of my dad's and knew him when I was a kid. Such a lovely man, often talked to him in Mecca. Sending our condolences to you all."

Karaoke fan John Richards.

And Karen Evans wrote: "So sorry to hear this sad news. My husband John worked with John in Border and Marstons over 30 years. A true gentleman. Gone but never forgotten."

His children added: "He was wonderful, always smiling, always had time for everyone else.

"He just wanted to make everyone happy, and everyone loved him.

"He had a good life, and went all over the world. He loved his holidays."

A family man, John relished being a grandad, with his children adding: "He always had toffees in his pockets."

Family John leaves behind includes children Karl and Christina, wife Audrey, grandchildren and sister Madge. A funeral service will take place at Pentrebychan Crematorium, in Wrexham on Friday, January 27, 2023 at 11.30am. Family flowers only, donations if desired for Deva House Day Centre. All enquiries to Roberts Bros on 01978 756997.