A long-serving secretary and treasurer of Keswick Senior Citizens’ Club has died after a short illness, aged 86.
Michael Jackson was born in Great Harwood in Lancashire, but he moved with his wife, Catherine, to Acorn Lodge on Ambleside Road in Keswick more than 30 years ago, following a career in local government.
Mr Jackson and his wife were active members of Keswick Methodist Church and for many years he organised walking holidays for the Rover Scouts.
Keswick Senior Citizens’ Club was originally set up in the early 1990s by the late John Holiday, in the then Salvation Army Hall, and Mr Jackson became treasurer and secretary soon after.
He was the guide and figurehead of The Drop In Centre, organising the purchase of the building from the Salvation Army in 1999.
Mr Jackson oversaw all aspects of the club’s administration, finances and activities, continuing to fulfil his responsibilities and to visit the centre at least weekly, even after his recent move to Stainton, near Penrith.
Committee member and trustee Sandra Kirkby said: “He was greatly respected by the many members who use the centre regularly, including Jean, widow of John Holiday, and her family.”
Mr Jackson is survived by his wife Catherine, children Karen, Philip and Lisa, and was a loving grandad and great-grandad.
His funeral service was held at Stainton Methodist Church in Penrith.
Donations in Michael’s memory were made to Cancer Research UK.
The Drop In Centre, Heads Road, has been closed throughout lockdown, but plans are in place to reopen in June, subject to Covid regulations.
The task of finding a replacement for Mr Jackson has already begun along with all other matters which need to be in place in time for an annual general meeting to take place as soon as possible.
