Mr Paul Wilkinson

Paul Wilkinson, husband to Helen, father to Louise and Nigel, grandfather to Sam, George, Robert, Charlotte, Aileen, Christine and Rosie, died peacefully on October 14 2024.  In memory of Paul we would like donations to go to Cancer Research.  Paul was Church Warden of the Parish of St Mary, Margaret Roding, Essex, where he worshipped and played the organ.  In addition to his outstanding career in the food manufacturing industry, he was a keen farmer.  He nurtured farmland around Margaret Roding and Royston with his wife Helen, growing wheat, barley, beans and sugar beet.

Paul was born in Northwich, Cheshire, to Tom and Martha Wilkinson and attended his local school, Sir John Deane's.  He went on to study Engineering at Wadham College, Oxford where he obtained a First Class degree and a Blue in Badminton.  He then spent almost 60 years working in the Food industry. His executive career included roles at Unilever, Grand Metropolitan and Ranks Hovis McDougall where he was Executive Chairman from 1997-2003.  Since 2003, he developed a portfolio of non-executive and advisory roles  including Chairman of Thorntons plc, Chairman of Fengrain (cereals grain storage operation), Chairman of the National Skills Academy for Food and Drink, Chairman of Condimentum Ltd and Chairman of Big Bear Group.  

Paul loved his family very much.  He met Helen in his first job at Unilever and recently celebrated 55 years of wonderful marriage. He enjoyed playing golf, tennis and badminton with his children, loved projects including the production of beautiful pieces of furniture and marquetry for Helen, and loved performances at the opera and Albert Hall.  His special place with Helen was their cottage in Aldeburgh and he loved fish and chips in the Regatta. We all miss his warmth, wisdom and kindness and that God will surround him with love and peace in his resting place at the Church of St Mary.