Tributes to Freeman of Bridgnorth and 'fine Christian gentleman' Len, 83
A popular businessman and freeman of Bridgnorth described as a "fine Christian gentleman" has died after a short illness.
Len Foxall, who launched electrical firm L.W Foxall in the 1960s which is still in business today, passed away peacefully on March 17 at the age of 83.
Bridgnorth born and bred, Mr Foxall only spent a brief period away from the town in the 1950s when he did national service in Jamaica.
On returning he married the love of his life Maureen in 1957 at St Mary's Church in Highley. They had three children, Claire, Charles and Dennis, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
He took up an apprenticeship with Midlands Electricity Board, qualifying as an electrician and remaining with them for a few years, until he launched his own business in the 1960s. Initially he carried out electrical work for people and businesses with a few employees, before opening his first shop in the town's High Street in 1971 selling electrical appliances. The business later moved to a larger premises on the High Street, and opened up a second store in St Mary's Street.
As well as enjoying his work and time with his family, Mr Foxall was also involved at The People's Hall Evangelical Church in St John's Street. He held the positions of church warden, secretary and also distributed bibles to local schools.
His daughter Claire, 60, said: "He was made a freeman of Bridgnorth in about 1981. He employed lots of people over the years. His main interest was the church, and he liked spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
"If I was to give him a title it would be a fine Christian gentleman and a well-respected man of the town."
His funeral will be on Monday at St Mary's Church, in Castle Street, Bridgnorth, at 11.30am.
