HEARTFELT tributes have been paid to a much-loved Evesham undertaker who died following a battle with Covid.
Martin Grinnell passed away on Saturday (July 24) with his family by his side at the Worcestershire Royal Hospital.
The 59-year-old had devoted 31 years to his Bewdley Street business and was Evesham’s only independent funeral director.
Son Reece, 23 will now follow in his father’s footsteps and will take the reins just 18 months after he became a partner with his father. Martin also leaves behind daughters Melissa Ainsworth and Sophie Anderson.
In a statement, the family said: “Martin’s infectious character touched many lives over the years bringing a positive yet peaceful approach to the funeral industry, he was a well-respected man, loved and known by many.
“We can’t thank Martin enough for his achievements and everything he has done for people, local and far over the past 31 years and he will be sorely missed by everyone.
“Martin has passed on his wealth of knowledge and approach to his amazing team and business partner, his son, Reece Grinnell who will now be running the business on a permanent basis.”
The company have assured those with funerals booked that the business will continue as usual in the safe hands of Reece and the team.
“We are a family run business ran on family values and Martin wanted us to carry on his legacy for many years to come which is what we are going to do,” the statement read.
Among those to paid special tribute to the pillar of the community was Vicar of Evesham, Rev Andrew Spurr.
“We were deeply sorry to learn we lost our good friend Martin Grinnell to Covid-19,” he said.
“He was a much-loved character, entrepreneur and had been a funeral director in Evesham for many years. We remember his family at this difficult time.
Martin’s funeral will take place at 12midday next Saturday (August 7) at the Vale Crematorium in Fladbury before a wake at Badsey Cricket Club.
