'A giant of a man in every way': Tributes pour in following death of popular Northern Ireland butcher
Death of Coleraine butcher Ken Anderson prompts an outpouring of tributes, with many recalling visits to his shop stretching back to childhood
Hundreds of tributes have been paid to well-known Coleraine butcher Ken Anderson, who died peacefully at his home on Monday (November 2).
A familiar face to generations of customers, Ken was remembered as a true gentleman, a great character and one of the town’s best-loved figures.
The Anderson family’s association with Coleraine’s butchery trade spanned five generations, with the business, known as Anderson’s Butchers, moving from Brook Street to Queen Street.
Ken became a familiar face to generations of customers, many of whom had been visiting the shop since childhood.
His death prompted an outpouring of messages from customers, friends and former colleagues, who shared fond memories of the butcher’s shop, where good humour and a friendly chat were as much a part of the experience as buying meat.
Many recalled visiting with their parents as children, while others remembered Ken supplying local restaurants and businesses and always making time for a conversation.
Claire Sugden MLA paid tribute, describing him as “a Coleraine stalwart and gentleman”.
She recalled visiting his shop as a child and said she had also had the pleasure of getting to know him over the past 10 years through her husband.
Customers spoke of Ken’s warmth and larger-than-life personality, with one describing him as “one of Coleraine’s greatest characters”.
Another said he was “a giant of a man in every way”, while a customer who remembered him from childhood said: “He always had a smile for everyone.”
Others recalled his jokes and stories, with one saying he would be missed for his “big booming voice and laugh”.
One tribute summed up the affection felt by many, describing Ken as “a wonderful man” who “would have helped anyone”.
Ken was the dearly loved husband of the late Anne, cherished father of Garth, father-in-law of Martha, much-loved granda of Jasmine, loving brother of Alice, and a dear uncle, great-uncle and friend to many.
Family and friends are welcome to call at the Anderson family home, Lodge Cottage, 88 Lodge Road, Coleraine, on Tuesday from 6.30pm to 9pm and Wednesday from 2pm to 5pm.
A funeral service will take place at St Patrick’s Parish Church, Coleraine, on Thursday at 11am, followed by a private family service of committal.
Family flowers only. Donations in lieu, if desired, may be made to Marie Curie through Hugh Wade and Son Funeral Directors.