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Founder of Keydell Nurseries dies unexpectedly

, by David Strange

We are sorry to announce John Strange, founder of Keydell Nurseries, unexpectedly passed away at the weekend after many years in the trade.

John started in 1953 working from an old Victorian kitchen garden doing market gardening and cut flowers and delivering using a horse and cart. Progressing in the sixties to a nursery and mail order a considerable trade was built up in roses, hedging, shrubs and bulbs.

Many thanks to the nurseries that have supported us in the past including Brinkmans Nurseries, Maurice Mandry, H.V. Norman, North Hill Nurseries, WD Smith, Exbury Nurseries and many Dutch suppliers especially Bill Lapair. We would also like to thank all of our current suppliers for their continued support.

What started off as a small cart and mail order company has grown into a Garden Centre and a farm, now being helped by the 3rd generation of Stranges and a 4th growing fast for the future.

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Here's what others have said...
Jo Gunning,  16 Oct 2019:
...Have only just heard of the passing, such a sad loss, he was a man of such kindness and never forgot a face all those years ago at Monro's and always gave a smile...priceless. To me he leaves big footprints to which the family I know will fill with pride.
Kevin Sheehan,  17 Sep 2019:
...I only discovered John's passing at the recent GLEE trade show and it was quite a shock as I had seen him not so long ago. He was always at Keydell whenever I called in whenever I called in to see David or Helen. My thoughts are with the Strange family and staff of Keydell Nurseries. Kevin Sheehan Sheehan Agencies
Ron Smith,  18 Aug 2019:
...Uncle John was my great uncle, he and aunt Delphi his wife, were very kind to me when I was a young teenager. I would ride my bike to Keydell Avenue on a Friday night stay at their bungalow until sunday evening, during this time I worked on the nurseries, bulb shed, mail order parcels,planting new cuttings at the forty acres site and it was great fun. They treated me like one of their own children, I have never forgotten these times, I believe it had a big influence on me which contributed towards the person I am today. David, Amos and Julie my thoughts and condolences are with you and all the family. Ron Smith
John King,  2 Aug 2019:
...Sorry to hear this news, our deepest sympathy to the whole family from your supplier Riffelmacher.
David,  25 Jul 2019:
...Really sorry to hear this sad news David, As you know I have known your father for many years from when he used to deliver fruit and veg with your uncle Amos to my Mum. I wish to extend my sincere condolences to you and your family. Best regards David Bailey
Sara Temperton,  25 Jul 2019:
...I'm sorry to hear the passing of the owner of Keydell. My deepest sympathy to the family. It is my local nursery and its the best.
Bryan,  24 Jul 2019:
...Sad news, my thoughts go out to the family. Kind wishes.

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