Tributes paid to psychiatric nurse
Residents have paid tribute to a popular community stalwart from Ashton.
David McKendrick, 67, a founder member of The Three Sisters group and also the Ashton Heath Residents Association, died in hospital on Wednesday, December 9.
The exact cause of his death is unknown.
He leaves behind wife Sue and their seven children and 12 grandchildren.
In a tribute, his family said: "David was an amazing human being – generous, warm, selfless and loving.
"He was the best father and husband anyone could ask for, and one of the most intelligent and humane men you could ever meet.
"Whilst we are devastated by our loss, and the town of Ashton will for a long time notice a huge loss of vitality, originality and bravery, we know that David will always be with us."
Through his community groups, David and Sue worked on many environmental projects to improve Ashton's parks and woodland and David helped set up Captain's Lane Community Centre.
The couple also took an active role in Labour election campaigns and David was treasurer for the Ashton Labour branch. David also helped set up the Ashton Forum online where tributes have been posted.
Coun Nigel Ash, who joined forces with David on several occasions, said: "Dave was a very good friend of mine. He cared deeply for the town of Ashton. It was through his drive and enthusiasm that Captain's Lane Community Centre is now the success it is.
"He cared passionately for the local environment and played a leading role in the renovation and development of Ashton Heath.
"He would spend many hours working on his beloved heath and doing environment improvements on the Three Sisters.
"Dave was an individual who did make a difference to the local community. He really was a great bloke, one of the best and I will miss him very much."
Ashton MP Ian McCartney also paid tribute to David.
He said: "David's dedication, hard work and inspirational leadership will be remembered by all who met and worked with him – a true friend of Ashton.
"His commitment to developing community facilities and bringing nature into the lives of local people with his work on Ashton Heath and the Three Sisters will be remembered by generations to come."
David was also a psychiatric nurse manager at Chorley Hospital and also worked at Winwick Hospital in Warrington, since closed.
David asked his family not to arrange a funeral, but they are hoping to get permission and raise funds for a bench in his honour at Three Sisters.
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Wednesday 22 February 2012
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