The founder of Yorkshire’s most famous hardware store has died at the age of 101.
Ralph Morten, founder of R W Morten Ltd in Cunliffe Road, Ilkley, passed away peacefully shortly before midnight on October 15.
Originally from Buxton, in Derbyshire, and a plumber by trade, he married his late wife Barbara on October 16, 1937, and on the same day the couple came to Ilkley, picking up the keys to the hardware shop.
During World War Two Mr Morten served in the Royal Engineers, while Barbara kept the shop going with the help of her sister.
Mr Morten took part in the D-Day landings, landing at Juno beach, and was involved in the building of Bailey bridges. On his return to Ilkley he focused all his energy on building up his hardware business.
His funeral takes place today at 1.30pm at Christchurch on The Grove, Ilkley.
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