A FORMER Burnley warehouse and shop owner has died suddenly while out walking with his son.

Francis Geoffrey Bowker, of Billington, known as Geoffrey to his family and friends, died on March 15 in the Ribble Valley village of Bashall Eaves aged 84.

The former owner of the J Bowker and SonsTobacco and Confectionary warehouse in Piccadilly Road had been accompanying his son Douglas, a Wildlife Trust volunteer, on a walk when he started to feel unwell.

His wife Meryl, 79, said: “Geoffrey had been walking with Douglas in Bashall Eaves when he started to feel unwell.

“He had walked a little further than usual and when he got back to the car, he simply just passed away. It was an awful shock for Douglas, it was just so unexpected.”

Mr Bowker, lived in Billington and was born and bred in Burnley.

He attend public school in Sheffield and Hertfordshire before joining the RAF for his national Service in 1945.

He wed his childhood sweetheart Meryl in March 1955 at Whalley Methodist Church and had two children Douglas and Sheena.

Mrs Bowker paid tribute to her ‘lovely’ husband.

She said: “Geoffrey was a lovely and caring man who will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him.”

After returning from the war, Mr Bowker took over the family business which was established in 1875 from his father.

The company which included J Bowker Tobacco and Confectionary warehouse and shop in Manchester Road, Burnley was his pride and joy until he sold after his retirement in 1986.

Mr Bowker was a keen jazz fan and was a freemason for many years.

As well as his wife and two children, he leaves his two grandsons Callum and Cameron.

His funeral service will take place on Monday at Burnley Crematorium from 11.20am.

Family flowers have been requested only.