REDDITCH Crematorium was packed as people flocked to pay tribute to Ian Kirwan, ‘the kindest, sweetest man that you will ever meet’ at his memorial service today.
The affection for Ian was evident with people even standing outside the front door of the main room to watch the memorial.
Those closest to him shared their fond memories and poetry which encapsulated the remarkable man who had touched so many lives through his caring nature.
The tributes were led by Ian’s wife of 20 years, who described him as her best friend and the love of her life.
He was also described as ‘big kid with a daft sense of humour’ who would be able to make anyone smile.
One story which summed up Ian’s sense of fun was when he was given a present in an Avengers bag, and he loved the bag so much he used it to carry his lunch around.
Ian worked as a software engineer contractor for Jaguar Land Rover and was incredibly passionate about his job there.
Ian was frequently described as a loving man who gave ‘the best hugs’, and there were many mentions of his love for animals.
Halfway through, one of Ian’s favourite songs ‘Mr Blue Sky’ was played as those gathered were able to reflect on the times they shared with Ian.
During the song, touching images of Ian’s life were played on screens, showing the fun loving and kind man he was.
At the front of the crematorium there were numerous yellow flowers laid, Ian’s favourite colour.
Several of the tributes mentioned Ian’s love of guitar playing, with Ian’s sister lovingly reminiscing about the noise he used to make while practising. Later on, a close friend looked back on Ian’s time playing in a band, describing his talent as ‘amazing’.
A private funeral was held earlier this week, prior to today’s memorial service.
