12
Jun
CEO of well-known Harrogate company dies
Dear Reader, this article is free to read. We publish about 100 articles a week all exclusively focused on local news. Please support independent local journalism by subscribing here. It costs as little as 14p a day.
The boss of Lights4Fun, one of Harrogate's best-known businesses, has died unexpectedly, it has been announced.
Gary Favell was appointed CEO of the decorative lighting company in March 2023 and told the Stray Ferret about his plans for the business 18 months later.
His death at the age of 69 has come as a shock to many, not least his colleagues and employees.
In a statement, Lights4Fun said:
It is with profound sadness that we must share the news of the sudden passing of our dear friend and colleague Gary Favell, CEO of Lights4fun.
Gary was a dynamic and widely respected figure within the retail and eCommerce industries. He held senior leadership roles at MFI, American Golf, Bathstore and more recently Lights4fun, playing a significant role in shaping and growing each of those businesses, receiving numerous accolades along the way for his achievements.
He made a lasting impression on everyone he met. Gary was known for his warmth, he was generous with his time, and he had that rare ability to make everyone feel valued. He believed in people, he backed them, mentored them, and gave everyone confidence to grow and become the best versions of themselves.
At Lights4fun, Gary fostered a culture of ambition, collaboration, and kindness, which is now deeply woven into the fabric of the business, and he demonstrated it always with authenticity and humility. He has been fundamental to the success of the business and development of its people over recent years.
Everyone at Lights4fun extends their heartfelt condolences to his wife, Anna, his family and loved ones, who he cared so deeply about and built everything with them in mind. He meant a great deal to a lot of people, and he will be deeply missed.
His legacy will live on in the people he inspired, the careers he shaped, and the culture he helped to build.
0