Remembering Dave
Remembering Dave Stanford, who passed away on 11 March at Glenfield Hospital, Leicester.
Dave and his family moved to Fleckney Road, Kibworth Beauchamp in 1984, a house that needed a great deal of work, but one that offered the all-important workshop within its grounds. It gave him both the space Dave needed to work from home, and the opportunity to raise their daughters in the countryside.
From that point on, Dave’s work and family life became closely connected. He worked incredibly hard and became well known in the village and beyond through ‘D.G. Stanford Fitted Bedrooms’, later ‘Beauchamp Bedrooms’. It became something of a family joke that there weren’t many ladies’ bedrooms in the area that Dave hadn’t been in!
Dave was exceptionally talented, with a deep understanding of wood and design. He drew all his plans by hand – no ruler, just a pencil and his guide finger – combining traditional craftsmanship with creativity to produce truly bespoke work for many.
He also had a love of music, teaching himself to play the guitar by ear and later attending night school at Welland Park to develop his skills further. For several years, Dave played regularly at Gartree Prison alongside Roger Garrett, something he found both meaningful and rewarding.
Dave loved gardening, and the gardens at Fleckney Road became something truly special, admired by many of the locals. Even as his mobility declined, he continued from a chair, with his trusty assistant Kathleen faithfully helping with the clearing up.
Everything changed when Dave suffered a major stroke at the age of 56. This was devastating – not only physically, but emotionally. He lost the life he had built, the work he loved, his independence, and many of the things that brought him joy, including playing the guitar. It had a profound impact on Kath and the whole family.
He grieved that loss deeply. And yet, despite everything, he showed remarkable resilience and determination. He continued to follow the Tigers, enjoy his music and make the most of the life he had with family and friends.
Dave was immensely proud of his daughters Amanda, Kate and Laura, and later of his grandchildren Evie, Jack, Alice and Elsie, and all they have achieved.
Those who knew him will remember he had funny bones. He was larger than life, sometimes a little sarcastic (much to the family’s embarrassment), but always with warmth behind it. A joker, a storyteller, and someone who left a lasting impression.
Kath and her daughters would like to thank everyone who has sent cards, offered kind words, or attended his funeral during this difficult time. It really has meant a great deal.
Kate Gamble (Daughter)
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