29.06.2013

Dick Kitson 1948 - 2013

Dick Kitson of Hirschmann Automation (PAT) passed away last Wednesday following a short battle with cancer, he was 65.

Kitson became involved with PAT in 1984 when he joined its distributor C.T.I. Crane Test and Inspection. The business was then acquired by PAT which also won the contract to fit S.L.I's. to Coles and subsequently Grove cranes in Sunderland. Kitson became the company man on site right up to the closure of the plant.

He also travelled overseas for PAT, mainly on Grove projects but
not exclusively. When Sunderland closed he reverted to service and joined
Samuel Walkers finally moving to the manufacturer's direct sales and support operation when it was established in 2006, following the demise of Walkers. See Samuel Walkers and PAT He was without question one of the industries most respected load moment indicator technicians.

He was a keen motorcycle trials enthusiast and when not competing
would assist with the organisation and the preparation of the courses.

He was due to retire later this year and had already spoken with many of his regular customers about his plans. He was diagnosed only recently with a virulent form of cancer and sadly never lived to benefit from his retirement years. He leaves behind Wife Kay and son Mark.

UPDATE
Funeral arrangements:

The funeral service will be held at on Monday July 8th at 10:45
All Saints Church
Hutton Rudby
Nr Yarm
TS15 0EY

Then it is family only to the crematorium, followed by an open gathering for all at the Hutton Rudby village hall.