Bakery boss and charity champ Duncan (66) dies

The family of a Burnley baker, devoted grandad and inspirational community champion who died aged 66 have paid tribute to 'an unassuming man who was humble about his achievements.'
Duncan Lees (s)Duncan Lees (s)
Duncan Lees (s)

Duncan Lees, who lived in Cliviger for 33 years before moving to Colne last summer, died in hospital on December 22nd surrounded by his family. Football fan Mr Lees worked at Warburtons bakery in Burnley for 30 years as factory manager and general manager before his retirement in 2011. Through his role at Warburtons he was also passionate about the community and sponsored sports clubs across town. He also sponsored school breakfast clubs, community events and daughter Becky (25) said he even gave away lorries to help with international aid campaigns. Away from work he was involved with Cliviger Sports Association, was a school governor at Cliviger Primary School, chairman of Burnley Grammar School Old Boys and Burnley Ladies’ Football Club. Following his retirement dad-of-three Mr Lees travelled through Europe with his wife of 39 years Donise and found his favourite place, Burgau, Portugal.

Becky said: “As a person, Duncan was a shining example of how life should be lived – by embracing the things that come for free, such as spending time with family and friends and making a difference to the world around you.” Mr Lees also leaves sons Matthew and David and granddaghter Erin Mae.

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