Terry J Vernon, the former managing director of Atkins & Cripps, died on August 22 aged 71.
Mr Vernon joined Atkins & Cripps from Mallinsons in 1964. He was a shareholder and director of Atkins Cripps at the time the company was purchased by Robert Horne in 1987. He subsequently became managing director and was responsible for setting up the sales operation in the south-west to where he relocated in 1988.
Mr Vernon had many interests outside his work but his passion was sailing, which he enjoyed with vigour following his retirement in 1989. He took great pride in being chairman of the Trustees for the National Maritime Museum and was present at its opening by the Queen and Prince Phillip which was an official engagement in the Millennium Tour.
Terry Vernon was a gifted raconteur with a unique personality who lived life to the full. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
