Tributes from across the baking industry have been paid to John Renshaw, who recently passed away at the age of 87.
Phrases used to describe him included “delightful company”, “permanently an optimist”, and a “true, gentle gentleman”.
Renshaw spent decades involved with his grandfather’s business JF Renshaw, which was founded back in 1898 as a specialist in almond-based products such as marzipan. He progressed to production manager and then director, guiding through a 1980 merger with bakery ingredients supplier Allmey and Layfield and a move from its historic Mitcham factory to its current site in Liverpool.
“His focus on quality and excellent customer service has heavily contributed to the positive reputation and legacy that Renshaw has today,” commented a spokesperson for the brand now owned by British Bakels and regarded as a leading manufacturer of sugar paste and ready-to-roll-fondant.
Following the family company’s sale in 1995, Renshaw remained an active member of the baking industry, becoming a master with the Worshipful Company of Bakers, president of the Alliance for Bakery Students and Trainees in 2011, and was chairman of trustees of the Baker’s Benevolent Society at the time of his passing.
His support for young bakers included maintaining the annual competition, The Renshaw Cup, launched by his father in 1952. After taking a 21-year hiatus, it made a triumphant return last year which Renshaw once again attended in person to present trophies.
Past master Francis Bergin called Renshaw one of his closest friends at the Worshipful Company of Bakers. “John was a man of old-fashioned courtesy and charm. Delightful company but what I remember most about him was his undoubted integrity. He was a gentleman in every sense of the word,” he said.
Sylvia Macdonald, former editor of British Baker, said she had known Renshaw for 36 years. “He received the BIA Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Baking Industry around 15 years ago in front of an appreciative audience of over 600,” she commented. “He had the gift of encouragement, inspiring many students to achieve their best.”
“It was always such a pleasure to see him. His conversation, like his mind was lively. He was very kind, diplomatic, and an interesting raconteur,” added Macdonald, also noting the volunteering Renshaw did outside of the trade such as helping troubled travellers at Gatwick airport.
In a eulogy delivered during a recent meeting of the Worshipful Company of Bakers, British Bakels chairman Paul Morrow said: “I’m sure all members of court will agree with me that with the passing of past master John, the industry has lost a true gentle, gentleman.”
Renshaw is survived by his wife Jill, two sons, one daughter, and five grandchildren.
No comments yet