THE funeral of a man who founded Darlington's only social club for the deaf was held yesterday.
Brian Pattison, of North Road, was deaf himself. He died on Saturday, aged 67, after a year-long battle with a brain tumour.
Mourners at the crematorium on Carmel Road North were joined by a sign language translator.
Mr Pattison's wife, Renee, is deaf. Like her husband, she lost hearing after contracting meningitis at a young age. They met at a special school.
Darlington Deaf Club was founded by Mr Pattison, and others, more than 40 years ago. It was originally above the old Co-op funeral building, but is now in Eldon Street.
Mr Pattison also worked for the family business, Pattison Brothers coal merchants, for more than 44 years.
A family member said: "He was a very, very strong willed person. He lived longer than we expected after he was diagnosed.
"He was really very well liked. He played a huge part in Darlington's deaf community, and he also built up a strong rapport and friendship with his customers.
"He will be deeply missed by family and friends."
Mr Pattison, who lived on North Road, leaves a daughter, Jacqueline, and a son, Christopher, and grandchildren.
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