Alan Silverwood, founder and chairman of bakeware specialist Alan Silverwood, died peacefully on April 17, his 85th birthday.
After serving in the RAF, then taking a law degree at Cambridge, Silverwood started his manufacturing business in the early 1960s, initially supplying aluminium jugs to schools and hospitals.
During 50 years of involvement in the housewares industry, he held several posts within trade bodies, including president of both the British and the European Cookware Manufacturers Associations.
A keen and able sportsman, he was a skilled boxer, tennis player and golfer, and for many years ran a "fun" company, jetting well-heeled executives around the world to play golf in exotic locations.
Though he eased into semi-retirement over 15 years ago, Silverwood was always keen to keep abreast of industry news and often attended trade shows to look up old friends.
Paying tribute to his father, Simon Silverwood said: "Alan was a true gentleman, the kindest, most generous of hosts and a thoughtful and supportive husband and father. His smile, his gentle sense of humour and his love of life will be sorely missed."
Alan Silverwood's funeral will be held on Wednesday May 4 at 2pm at Lodge Hill Crematorium, Birmingham B29 5AA.
The family has requested family flowers only, but donations may be made to Neville Williams House, 8/14 Greenland Road, Birmingham B29 7PP.