It is seven years ago this week that we lost a much respected industry figure, Briggs & Stratton's Bryan Peachey. The industry still misses his quiet authority, charm and humour - so here is the tribute paid by Kim Macfie at his funeral
BRYAN: My Friend (abridged from tribute in Service Dealer June 2006)
"Bryan had many friends. Indeed it is hard to envisage that he could not befriend anyone. In essence that is why his untimely passing has come as such a shock to the entire industry he served for most of his working life.
Bryan always conducted his activities with profound sincerity and humanity. He had three principal areas to his life: his work; his rugby; his family - who, of course, were always uppermost in all he did.
To each of these facets he applied his own, simple philosophy: honesty, diligence, good humour and service to others. Bryan never displayed ill-temper or rancour; he had no side and did not play politics; what you saw was what you got. How refreshing that was in a world whose fundamental values have been side-lined.
In the pursuit of both work and rugby I travelled many miles with Bryan. Such hours were always shortened by his amiable company and stimulating conversation - our destinations always seemed to be reached in record time. Never did his demeanour alter, he was always genuine and a wonderful travelling companion.
In his service to Briggs and Stratton, his contribution was incalculable. His knowledge and understanding of the industry, the products, the competitor’s products and how all these elements inter-connected, was wider-ranging than almost anyone else’s.
He was never a push-over but invariably even-handed and pragmatic. These qualities earned him the respect and high regard he so richly deserved. Even through his recent, more troubled relationship with the company, he displayed no enmity, only loyalty and professionalism that lesser mortals would have found impossible.
The industry will greatly miss his talents.
RUGBY was an abiding passion that played a huge part, both as a player and as an official, throughout his life. After he stopped playing he continued to give his experience and time by coaching and encouraging young players to reap the life-benefits the sport confers.
Saffron Walden Rugby Club - and the game in general - will always be in his debt for the dedication and commitment he so willingly gave.
The platform on which all this was built was his family: his wife Anne, daughter Caroline and son Tom. They provided the bulwark that gave Bryan his independence and security.
It was such a strong relationship that, whatever adversity life might throw up, he had the strength to face it. Naturally he gave at least as much to his children as he did to the other aspects of his life.
If, at one time, his weekends weren’t being spent pulling Caroline’s horsebox around the country they would be used to transport Tom and his drum kit to any of the gigs he was due to play. And, of course, Bryan loved it all - and they loved him for it too. The family will have the support of all his friends and colleagues as they come to terms with the chasm created in their lives.
Now he has gone. He was a lovely, lovely, generous man - the very epitome of a gentle gentleman. The world will be a much poorer place without Bryan but all of us who mourn his passing will rejoice in the richness and quality that knowing him brought to our lives. He was, and always will be, much loved."
