Tribute paid after sudden death of well-known Lancaster businessman
Tribute has been paid to a Lancaster business owner and family man who has passed away suddenly aged 56.
It is with great sadness that the family of Daryl Butcher has shared the news with the local community that he passed away ‘suddenly and unexpectedly’ last month.
Daryl was a much-loved husband, father, son, brother and friend. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Lindsey and his four cherished children, Melissa, Harley, Kyle and James, who were the centre of his world.
He will be deeply missed by his mum, Marilyn and his dad, Richard, as well as his sister, Cheryl. Daryl’s passing is also mourned by the many friends he made throughout his life, both in Lancaster and in his hometown of Brackley, Northampton, where he was born and raised.
After growing up in Brackley, Daryl moved to Lancaster in his early 20s. He began his working life locally at Dave Hudspeth’s Carpets before going on to establish his own business, The Carpetman in King Street.
Known and trusted by many in the community, the business was founded more than 35 years ago and steadily grew into a well-established and respected local enterprise. Daryl took great pride in his work, building lasting relationships with customers and creating a business rooted firmly in the community.
Daryl met Lindsey in Lancaster and together they began their family in 1999. They married in August 2003, building a life together filled with love, laughter and shared memories.
As their family grew, so too did their involvement in the business, with Lindsey and the children becoming part of what developed into a true family-run enterprise built on shared effort, commitment and pride in Daryl’s work.
“The business he built stands as a lasting legacy to his hard work, values and dedication to the local community,” said his family.
Outside work, Daryl had many interests and passions. He loved horse racing and enjoyed regular trips to Cheltenham, as well as greyhound racing, darts, and football.
He was a proud supporter of Coastal Amateur Boxing Club in Morecambe and was also Slyne Wolves Football Club’s biggest fan. With his own son playing for the team, Daryl could often be found on the sidelines cheering on all the children, and offering positive encouragement, support and kindness to all players. Daryl also generously supported the club through team sponsorship.
In quieter moments, Daryl enjoyed unwinding with a Chinese meal from his favourite restaurants, the Fortune Star in Lancaster or the Honey Tree in Morecambe.
He was also a devoted dog lover and adored his three dachshunds, Bella, Bertie, and Ruby, with Ruby holding a particularly special place in his heart after being rescued through Animal Care.
Daryl’s funeral will take place on Tuesday January 20 at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium at 1:30pm.
Family flowers only. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made in Daryl’s memory to support the work of Animal Care, via the funeral director, Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director of King Street, Lancaster.