Michael ABBOTT

Michael ABBOTT of Booth Road, Waterfoot, sadly passed away in the early hours of Boxing Day at Royal Blackburn Hospital, aged 81. Born to the late Sydney and Mary Abbott of Thorn Street, Rawtenstall. Michael was a much-loved husband to Christine for 58 years and a devoted father to Kaye and Sally. He was a wonderful grandfather to Lewis, Luke, Jacob and Isaac and leaves behind sons-in-law Jason and Chris. He also leaves a nephew Karl, who lives in America, a sister-in-law Audrey and two nieces, Michelle and Joanne. Michael attended Alder Grange School and initially qualified as a textile technologist, working at Mutual Mills in Heywood for many years. As the textile industry changed, he set up and successfully ran a clothing manufacturing company, operating from premises within the Valley and covering three thriving markets in the north west. Michael then undertook an accounting and finance degree as a mature student at Manchester Metropolitan University, achieving a high 2:1. He successfully trained as a lecturer, worked as a self-employed accountant and financial advisor and later taught at HMP Buckley Hall, where he became a much-respected mentor. After retirement, Michael enjoyed being a very hands-on grandad, loving taking his grandchildren to playgroups and was a highly dependable and dedicated support to them. Michael loved spending time following the stock market and politics and he was a keen supporter of Manchester United. During his early life, he played both tennis and table tennis and was an active member of the Men’s Christian Fellowship at St Anne’s Church, Edgeside. He believed in the importance of education and actively supported Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar school retaining its status as a grammar school. He enjoyed family holidays in the UK, having travelled to Bermuda and Europe during his early married life. Michael’s funeral will be held at Accrington Crematorium on Thursday, January 16, at 11am, with family flowers only, however any donations to Michael’s memory would be much appreciated for Mind. Enquiries to Georgina at Johnson, Durning and Woods Funeral Service 01706 214498.

Charity details

Mind (Mind (The National Association For Mental Health))

Registered Number 219830

http://www.mind.org.uk