WITH the death of John Denman at his home at Thorverton, aged 85, on July 15, Devon has lost a much respected former local businessman and distinguished Rotarian.

Quietly spoken but determined, he welcomed a challenge and lived to the full the rotary motto of service above self.

After his term as president of Exeter West Rotary Club in 1983 he went on to become District Governor in 1988/89. He was then appointed area extension officer and decided that it was time Crediton had an evening rotary club to cater for those business and professional people who were unable to attend a lunchtime meeting.

I was a past president of another Exeter club, living near Crediton, when John telephoned me to explain that he was aware that there had been previous attempts to form an evening club and that they had failed.

He said he was determined, therefore, to form a club and asked if I would assist him. I said I would and that was the beginning of a warm friendship. Needless to say, the evening club of Crediton Boniface was elected into the Rotary organisation in 1993.

A Plymothian, John had a deep-seated desire to help others, which was one of the reasons he joined Rotary after returning to this country from World War II service with the RAF in the Middle East. He had volunteered as soon as he reached the age of 171/2.

Once he became a civilian again he qualified as a chartered accountant and came to work in Exeter. When he retired in 1990 he was financial director of French Feeds and Seeds, based at Marsh Barton.

In his rotary work he was fully supported by his wife, Maggie, who made many events that much more enjoyable by her presence with him.

In addition to Maggie, John leaves three grand-sons and two grand-daughters.

The funeral service, held at Thorverton parish church, was conducted by the Rev. Douglas Dettmer, followed by interment in the churchyard.

Donations made at the service will be given to Exeter Hospiscare.

Funeral arrangements were carried out by A White and Sons, Crediton.

A S