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DEATH OF HEAD OF DERBY FIRM

This article originally appeared in the Derbyshire Advertiser, 16th March 1962

Managing director of Burrows and Sturgess Ltd., Derby, since 1943, Mr William John Sturgess, of Western Mount, 109, Radbourne Street, Derby, died at the Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, after a short illness on Tuesday.

He left school in 1918, when he began with the company and worked in all departments. In 1925 his Father, Mr Harry Sturgess, purchased the mineral water business of Mr J.E. Bracher in Plymouth, to enable his son to gain experience of independent management.

Mr Sturgess conducted this business as Bracher and Sturgess until 1933, when he returned to Derby, because of his Father`s illness. He was appointed his Father`s personal assistant and in 1942 director and general manager of Burrows and Sturgess. He succeeded his Father who died in 1943 as managing director.

He also succeeded his Father on the council of Bottlers Mutual Association, and as a director of the National Union of Soft Drinks Manufacturers. When the new National Association of Soft Drinks Manufacturers was formed he became delegate of the Bottlers Mutual Association and served in different capacities until he was elected vice-president in 1950 and president in 1952.

Last year Mr Sturgess was made and honorary life member of the National Association in recognition of his distinguished service. A member of the Conservative Party, he had been chairman of Friargate Ward Conservative Association. His wife Mrs Doris Victoria Sturgess is a magistrate and a former president of Derby Inner Wheel. He also leaves two daughters, Mrs C.S. Gibbs of 21 Lawn Heads avenue, Littleover and Mrs W.G. Hassan of Suffolk, and three grandchildren.

The funeral is at St Barnabas Church, Derby, today at 11 am.

Submitted by Paul Morrell

• End of an era at Burrows

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County:  Derbyshire