KeithMELLANDIt is with great sadness that the family of Keith Melland announce his passing on Monday 8th February at the young age of 63 after his battle with cancer. Keith of Sterndale Moor, Near Buxton passed away peacefully at Ashgate Hospice, Chesterfield. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 41 years Jeanette (Jan), his children and their partners Helen & Lee, Paul & Amy, Hannah & Kevin, Rachel & Adam, Rebecca & Dan, stepson Dave and his partner Alison, nine grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild. In addition, parents Henry (Tim) and Esther (Tess) and brother Kenneth, Keith was predeceased by sister Linda and son Mark. Keith was born in July 1957 and attended Bakewell Secondary C of E School. After finishing school he took a joinery apprenticeship, but his real dream was to be a motor mechanic. He began his career as a mechanic when he worked for Peak Mix Concrete at Peak Forest before setting up his own motor repair business. He had a passion for motorbikes specifically motocross and sidecarcross and had a successful racing career that took him all over the country and to parts of Europe, he took great pride in representing the U.K. Unfortunately he was also a Derby County F.C. fan! Throughout his life via his love of his work and his passion for motorbikes, he made many friends, many of whom were lifelong friends. He had the ability to make anyone feel comfortable in his presence and was known by all for his iconic moustache and infectious big cheeky smile. Due to Covid restrictions there will be a private funeral service at St. Bartholomew's Church, Longnor which will be followed by a Celebration of Life event as and when restrictions allow. Donations if desired to Ashgate Hospice. For further details please contact:- Mellor & Smith Funeral Directors, Prince of Wales House, Fairfield Road, Buxton, Derbys., SK17 7DN Tel. (01298) 77703 www.davidhsmith.co.uk
