Top Saddleworth Rotarian dies

Stan Bowes

Father of two, Stan Bowes, aged 75,  from Diggle was affectionately known by friends and colleagues as ‘Stan’s the Man’ because of his wide breadth and wealth of knowledge.

Stan, born in Darlington, was three times  president of The Rotary Club of  Saddleworth, and managing director of WH Shaw pallet factory in Diggle until he retired in 2007. He was heavily involved in the  industry nationally and internationally and became president of the European Pallet Association. 

He was inducted into Rotary the same day as Oldham lawyer,  John Ainley,  28 years ago. In an affectionate tribute, Mr Ainley ,said: “Stan invariably backed up his comments with technical facts and figures that left you in no doubt he was right.

“Ornithology was probably his first love which he coupled with his interest in photography and he could instantly produce action pictures of birds he had taken in different parts of the world of professional quality.

“Astronomy was also his great interest and I would often ask him to identify a bright star or planet in the night sky and he would explain in detail the name, distance and orbit of the object. 

“He also studied Meteorology in depth and when together at a meeting in Eccles one Saturday morning he checked his phone and told me the wind speed and rain fall in Diggle at that precise moment. Such was his thirst for knowledge and attention to detail.

“We have both been President of the Saddleworth Club - me twice, Stan three times  - but it was clear from an early stage Stan was destined for higher office.

"He aspired to the prestigious role of District Governor and worked tirelessly to promote Rotary and charity at all levels. He was a popular public speaker and attended dinners and meetings throughout the north west and in the Isle of Man. 

“He spoke with authority on climate change and the major contribution made by Rotary International in the eradication of Polio worldwide. Such were his commitments that seldom could he enjoy the luxury of evenings in his own home. 

“Stan was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship, the highest honour that can be bestowed in Rotary, for his outstanding work in the movement.”

Mr Ainley added: “Underlying all this was the devoted family man who was supported by his remarkable wife Sheila. 

"It is said behind every great man is a great woman and that is certainly the case here. He was a dutiful and loving father and grandfather and the Rotary motto ‘Service above Self’ was certainly true of Stan in every respect.”

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