The good old days! We all learned a lot from his charismatic charm with the customers and sharp sense of humour. Always the practical joker, those who worked with him I feel sure will all recite at least one of these if not more! Also for his ability to tackle his peers and leave them in no doubt who was the boss! Sad times for his family but someone never forgotten and only happy memories!

We both have incredibly fond memories of working with Ian at Hare Hatch in the late 80’s and 90’s. A larger than life character whose knowledge, experience and work ethic were truly inspiring. He didn’t suffer fools gladly or beat around the bush-but this meant you learnt so much more and very quickly! His tough approach was balanced by a fabulous sense of humour, a respect for hard work and honesty…..plus a softer side too. Think of Ian…close your eyes…and you’ll hear his voice. Says a lot. Rest in peace, Ian. A legend.

Very sad news, its difficult to think of anyone more energetic and hard working and dedicated than Ian, coupled with his wry sense of humour. In the 80's running a garden centre at the time in the top 5 sales GCs in the UK, and so many plants! Along with his other interests , fire service and Round table, where as always he gave his all. Great to have known him in those albeit different times.

Rest in Peace Ian on what would have been your 80th Birthday today (11th August). We were so privileged to have you as our first manager when we were management trainees at Harehatch Garden Centre in the late 1980's. Under your expert mentoring and leadership, you paved the way for our future careers in the Garden Centre industry. It was a huge privilege for us too, when you were guest of honour at our wedding in 1993. You actually tore yourself away from the garden centre for one weekend, amazing! Our sincere thoughts go out to your family today. However, they can be very proud of you, on what you achieved and what a difference you made to so many lives, inside and outside of the garden centre industry. Ian, you were a truly unique one-off, who was well loved and admired by many people who had the privilege to come into contact with you. We'll raise a toast to you tonight. Cheers!

The passing of a truly wonderful man, rest in peace Ian This obituary sums Ian up so well, Kennedys Garden Centres main manager, running Kennedys largest centre for many, many years, hugely respected by all of us fellow managers, always happy to advise and help you but as as been said “tough and gruff” I joined Kennedys in the late 70’s and I soon recognised that Ian was the “Daddy” Kennedy manager with a wealth of experience and the go to man. He developed many staff and management trainees alike Hard working and very much an “old school” manager as well as giving a lot to his local community and to the fire service Thank you Ian, it was a pleasure knowing you Kevin