It is with great sadness that we share the news that Bill Alderman passed away on Friday 20th January, at the age of 80.
Bill was the founder of the company which bears his name. He was a friend to many in the local business and engineering community, and was loved and respected by our own staff team. And of course, most of all, he was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He will be greatly missed by so many people, for so many reasons.
As many will know, Bill was diagnosed with Parkinson’s some years ago; but for as long as he was able he would regularly visit the factory, relishing still being in the toolroom, his heartland. His birthday celebration last year included proudly leading a factory tour for friends, followed by fish and chips for everyone!
Some years ago we compiled an autobiography of Bill’s life, telling the story of how this young apprentice arrived in Plymouth and progressed to founding our company. Click on this link to read more.
If you would like to post a message of remembrance, we invite you to do so using the Comments box on this page. Thank you – the family greatly appreciates your thoughts and good wishes.
There is to be a memorial service at Emmanuel Church in Plymouth on Thursday 2nd March at 1.45pm, followed by a celebration of Bill’s life at Yelverton Golf Club. We would ask that the family’s final wishes are observed, and there are to be no flowers, simply donations to Parkinson’s UK would be welcomed instead, and may be made by way of a retiring collection. Enquiries to Co-op Funeralcare, Glen Road, Plympton, Plymouth, PL7 2DE. Tel: 01752 208059
Please note that the Aldermans factory and office will be closed on Thursday 2nd March as a mark of respect, and to allow our staff to participate in the service of remembrance.
19 responses to “Remembering Bill”
Such sad news; Bill was clever, witty and kind, and so rightly proud of the amazing company he founded. Sincere respects at this sad time.
Bill a great inspiration always most comfortable in an engineering environment. He worked hard to build a super successful business in Plymouth. Bill touched many people’s lives, and will always be remembered. RIP
Very sad to hear of Bill’s passing. Bill was a legend in the Devon & Cornwall engineering environment, trustworthy, dependable and supportive in the early days of Rittal-CSM’s growth.
My thoughts are with you Karen and best wishes to Bill’s family.
Alan Courts
Bill you gave me a chance many years ago when many others wouldn’t. I can’t thank you enough. A special man. My thoughts are with you Karen Mum and family.
Ian G.
I enjoyed working with Bill in the 1980’s when I had the Ranco plant in Plympton. He was always inventive, responsive, supportive and helpful.
Just wanted to pass on my sincere condolences to Karen and family after hearing of Bills passing and just wanted to say thank you for letting me have the opportunity to work for Aldermans when i did.
Take care.
Darryl Nicholls
So sad to hear of Bills passing. He was a great engineer, solving many of our precision pressing challenges at British Fly Reels back in the 80s and 90d.
Best wishes
So sad to hear the news that one of life’s gentleman has left. He is remembered for his kindness, wisdom and mischievous smile.
It was a please to know him even for a short time.
Sad news, so sorry to hear. Bill was a legend, a toolmaker the same as me and he was building Alderman at the same time I was building Permaban. In those early days I fondly remember working with Bill on Permaban projects where his knowledge, common sense and determination to get the job done with ingenuity was inspiring.
So sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. He was a lovely man and my thoughts are with the family xx
I am very sad to hear of Bills passing, my deepest condolences to you all, a very sad and reflective time,
Best wishes
Miki Booth
In 1980 Bill took on 3 apprentices from Rank Toshibas closure, I was one of those 3 youngsters that needed nurturing in the world of engineering. I am very grateful for Bill’s kindness and will always have fond memories of being called into the office for a chat with Bill and Terry !!! Over 40 years later I am still calling on those engineering skills passed on from my time as an apprentice at Alderman Tooling. Kind regards
I and all who worked closely with Alderman Tooling over the years would like to pay our deepest respects to Karen and all of the family at this most difficult of times. City College Plymouth’s thoughts are with you all.
Very sad news Bill was a lovely man and a proper old school Engineer he certainly knew his trade he will be missed
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Karen at this difficult time.
God bless you all.
Our sincere condolences from everyone here at RSP.
So sorry to hear about Bill’s passing. I remember working with Bill when I worked for Arcadia Group. He was always generous with his time and nothing was ever too much trouble. I feel very honoured to have met him. I will be thinking of you and your family, Karen. Warmest regards, Bev
I have worked in the Metal supply Business for nearly 35 years. Bill was an absolute pleasure to deal with in every respect & I also know how much he loved his golf out of work. Bill was a true gentleman in every respect & will be sorely missed. Sincere condolences from everyone at Righton Blackburns!
Karen we will be thinking of you & your family at this sad time,
Kind Regards
Neal
What an absolute Gentleman, Genius, Humorist and Great Human Being – I was lucky enough to have known Bill through work as a customer and as a problem solver, were his brilliance solved many engineering black holes for the Defence and Nuclear sectors. However, my best memories of Bill are out of work, were we shared many laughs either on the Golf course or of course later nestled on the 19th hole.
Love to all family and friends at this very sad time.
Kindest regards
Andy