Obituary: Nick Davenport

Mr Davenport, who retired in 2013, enjoyed a timber trade career spanning back 46 years.

He started in 1967 when he decided, at the age of 16, to go to Canada to learn about the timber industry first hand working for Canadian Forest Products Ltd. On his return in 1970 he joined Phoenix Timber Group as a company trainee, before moving to Boulton and Paul in 1979 as lead buyer for joinery products and progressing through the ranks quickly to become purchasing director in 1989 at the age of 40.

He joined Metsä Wood in 1996 as procurement director where he spent 19 years before retiring. He was a member of the UK management team and his knowledge, expertise and experience of the trade were instrumental to the company’s success.

“His hands on approach and love for the trade gave him his edge,” said one former colleague.

“Right up until the end of his career he could still be found, on occasion, accurately sorting a pack of timber at a pace that few could match. He will be remembered as a fearsome negotiator but always fair; where a deal was sealed in the traditional manner, with a shake of hands.”

The funeral will be held on February 9th at 10.30am, GreenAcres Colney, Whatton Road, Norwich, NR4 7TY.  Following the service everyone is invited to Unthank Arms, Norwich, NR2 2DR. All enquiries should be directed to Rosedale Funeral Home, 01986 892790