Norman & Underwoods Chairman, Roger James Castleman passed away on 16th August 2004 following a long period of ill health.

Mr Castleman, who was 73 joined the group in 1975 as Managing Director and then became Chairman, a position he had held since 1997.

Over the past 30 years he was one of the main driving forces behind the growth in the group’s activities to its present national and international position, earning the respect and admiration of the whole of the industry in the process.

As a direct descendant of John Underwood, one of the two company founders in 1825, Mr Castleman was a member of the 6th generation of the family to play an active part in its long history.

Mr Castleman was very active in freemasonry having been a Past Master of Gartree Lodge, Leicester where he was a member for over 40 years.

He was also renowned for his charity work, which included the Leicester Rotary Club and Leicester Probus of which he was Treasurer.  He was also Treasurer of the Leicestershire Girl Guide Association for 11 years.

For over 60 years of his life Mr Castleman attended the Robert Hall Memorial Baptist Church where he made many friends.

As a great family man, he loved to holiday in Cromer – or Cromer del Sol as he called it – and was known by his family as “the landmark on the beach” as he had been visiting there for over 60 years!

Son Jonathan, who is a Director with the company, said

“He will be remembered by all who knew him as one of life’s true gentlemen.  Norman & Underwood was a major part of his life and his hard work helped to make the company what it is today.  It is in his memory that we will continue to build the business on his achievements.”

One of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet, Mr Castleman refused to let his illness dampen his spirit, his love of life and people or his dedication to the Company.  He was last at his desk just weeks before he died.

Roger leaves a wife Pamela, five children and seven grandchildren.