Shock at sudden death of well-loved industry stalwart
It is with great sadness that PG has to announce the recent death of industry veteran Derek Hanley who suffered a fatal heart attack while at the gym, aged 70.
Loved by all who had the pleasure to know him, Derek had a long and varied career in the greeting card and gift wrap industry and will be sorely missed by so many.
His industry career spanned over 40 years, notably working for giftwrap leaders Italpapers and Collage, where he worked with his brother Bill. Derek also worked for International Greetings, Pigment and latterly was a freelance sales manager for the Unique Paper Company.
Charming, funny, and hard-working, Derek was always there to help anyone in need. An incredible networker, his friendships in the trade spread far and wide, over many decades.
PG Buzz’s joint owner Warren Lomax, a long-time friend of Derek’s, commented: “I still can’t believe lovely Derek has gone. He was a super-fit squash player and boxer and so full of energy. My heart goes out to his lovely partner Ela, his family and friends. Trade shows will not be the same without his larger-than-life presence.”
