RIP ...Village mourn much-loved Frank Pullen

The service was held on the filling station forecourt

They came in their hundreds to say a final,  warm hearted farewell and pay their respects to a legend they called with huge  affection “Arkwright”...

Because, like the TV series, Frank Pullen’s Lees filling station was open all hours and sold everything from fuel to flowers, wool and muffins.

There was laughter, tears and applause from mourners as they listened with rapt attention to a  eulogy, presented with measured dignity and humour by Roger Fielding, and emotional tributes from his family.

But held on the filling station forecourt, it was in every way a service of celebration reflected in stories and anecdotes of Frank’s colourful life spanning 81 years.

He was  married to Judith for almost 60 years and described as an “amazing” dad to Sue and Dave, grandad to Peter, Michael, Stephen and Ben and recent great grandad to Thea.

Frank was  past president Saddleworth golf club and held  charity days each year and  supported guide dogs.

Donations to Dr Kershaws Hospice were left in a special box  at garage, where a book of remembrance was opened.

A full tribute to Frank will appear in the August edition of the Oldham Evening Chronicle. Email your tribute to: ken@oldham-chronicle.co.uk

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