Tributes to a well-known Furness pub manager
Last updated at 18:26, Sunday, 16 December 2012
TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular Furness pub manager and devoted grandfather who died on Monday.
Romeo Temperini was described by his family as a “brilliant” man, who was well-liked wherever he went.
The 5ft 2in Italian used to run a host of pubs across Furness, including The Lancastrian, in Ulverston, and The Strawberry, in Barrow.
He also won awards during his time as manager at The Ferry, in Walney. Shortly after retiring from the trade in June 2001, Mr Temperini suffered a stroke.
And 18 months before he died, at the age of 66, he was diagnosed with lung cancer that later spread to his brain. Mr Temperini’s widow, Susan, said he battled bravely through illness until the end, devoting himself to his seven grandchildren.
She added: “He fought through everything with a smile on his face — nobody really knew how ill he was.”
After arriving in the country on his 21st birthday, unable to speak a word of English, he worked his way up through the trade. He made aname for himself with customers throughout Furness and Mrs Temperini said nobody had a bad word to say about her late husband.
She said: “He was famous around here. So many people remember him and everybody who knew him liked him.”
He was well-liked by staff and Mrs Temperini still keeps pictures from work parties and a hand-drawn birthday card her husband received from some of his employees.
The couple spent many years in the area, having married in 1985, before moving to Lancashire to take on the challenge of a new pub.
They moved back to Swarthmoor in 2001 when they retired.
Failing eyesight following the stroke meant Mr Temperini lived a quieter life, but Mrs Temperini said he always made time for his family. She added: “He loved his grandchildren.”
Mr Temperini’s customer-focused attitude and friendly personality earned him success wherever he went. He won awards at several pubs and was presented with a certificate for his long service with Whitbread pubs.
Mr Temperini leaves behind three children from a previous marriage.
First published at 16:43, Friday, 14 December 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk
A lovely man - i particularly remember he was wonderful with his customers children and always made you feel welcome in any pub he ran - i am very sorry to hear of his passing at such a young age. RIP.
Have your say
He was always pleasant and welcoming,and made your visit memorable. Evenings spent in the Lancastrian will always be remembered.
Posted by Denise & Reg Buckley on 18 December 2012 at 11:39