Rob Hurdley Book of Condolence

The Dinnington Guardian has opened a Book of Condolence for 45-year-old Rob Hurdley who sadly died after an incident in a Maltby pub on Sunday.

To sign the book, email us with your condolences at [email protected]

“I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Robs death. I am an old friend and neighbour and have shared many a good time with Rob and Alison. I would like to send my sympathy to Alison and family and to say you are in my thoughts at this time.”

Dean Atherton

***

“I would like to send my condolences to the family of Rob Hurdley, he was always courteous, witty and very professional to me, he’ll be sorely missed.”

Yvette Maxwell-Darkes

***

“I lost a great friend today. In fact, many people lost a great friend. One dear lady, Alison, lost a loving partner and three young children lost a wonderful dad. Rob Hurdley was a friend and a client, but mainly he was a friend.”

“As a businessman, he dedicated time, effort, passion and love to build a brilliant Specsavers business at Chesterfield. It won the Best Store Of The Year award which will be a lasting tribute to him and his great team - I know that team will miss him terribly.”

“He was respected and he was loved by them, as he was by lots of others in Specsavers stores around the country.”

“It’s as a friend that he’ll be missed by me and lots of others too. Rob was a funny, straight talking, caring and loyal bloke. He was one of those rare people who would stand by you through thick and thin and as a result was admired by so many who he did just that to.”

“But, it’s as an amazing dad to Thomas, Henry and Lydia that he’ll be best remembered for. A more dedicated father you will never find, and his passion and care for those kids will live on in my memory for a long, long time.

“Speaking to his sister, Amanda, she told me he was a brother and a friend. To me, he was a friend and a brother.

“Rest In Peace Rob – a true leader, in business and in life.”

Andy Hanselman

***

“We have all lost such a genuinely nice person in tragic circumstances. All those who had the pleasure of meeting Rob will remember a wonderful character and a warmness so special to him. Our thoughts are with Alison and their three beautiful children.”

Jonathan Toft and family

***

“A ‘Big Man’ with a ‘Big Heart’ and an even ‘Bigger smile’. It was a pleasure to have known Rob. Our thoughts and condolence are with Alison and the Children at this time.”

John, Jane, Jack and Lucy Baldry

***

“I became acquainted with Rob and Alison many years ago when Alison looked after my partner on the maternity ward of Rotherham Hospital after the birth of our first child. We remained friends and remember when they left the cottage in Whiston to move to Dinnington and the delight at the birth of their first child. I was a client of Rob’s and visited Specsavers regularly, Rob was a gentleman, a wonderful husband and fantastic father he will be sadly missed by all those who knew him and a great lost. My best wishes to Alison and family at this very sad time.”

Craig Hodson and family

***

“A lovey man who will be sadly missed. My sympathy Alison, Thomas, Henry and Lydia. Thinking about you all.”

Elaine, Andy, Lewis Woodward x

***

“Dinnington has lost one of the kindest, friendliest and the most fun-loving man I have ever had the honour of knowing. Every person whose lives he touched are grief stricken and dumbfounded by this news of his untimely and tragic death. He was a great family man, a successful business man, a fantastic friend to all that knew him, and a true gent. His loss will be felt throughout this village for years to come, from generations of people that knew him, young and old. Goodbye Rob, it was an honour to know you, and a pleasure to have had you in my life.”

Chris Coe

***

“Absolutely tragic. A boy who I grew up with. We had our arms round each other in the front row of the scrum. My optician for 25 years. A fine and stalwart friend. I feel broken at this sad news about Rob. My heart goes out to all who knew him and especially to his family. Miss you Robert.”

Dave Ellis

***

“We are so saddened and upset that such a lovely man can leave us so quickly, we will miss him so much at Dinnington Rugby club parents and children alike especially my Little Rhino the nickname gave to my 11 year-old-boy at the Rugby club by Rob after one of the matches played. Only last Wednesday night before training he pulled up at the side of our car and peeped his horn and made me jump so much that Rob was laughing so much and i had to laugh too and the boys, but that was Rob such fun. Rest In Peace Rob we Love you so much.”

Julie, Ted, Luke and Nathan

***

“I’ve been trying to work it out but it was sometime in the mid to late 80s when I joined Dinnington rugby club. Rob was one of the first people who befriended me and during the next 15 years or so we often played in the same team and shared a beer together. When I left the area Rob was one of a handful of people I kept in touch with and meeting him on my trips back to the club was always a pleasure. The guy was always ready to share a joke and more than happy to have a beer but he also knew enough to be interested in all aspects of people’s lives and there was so much more to him than his funny side. I am as shocked as everybody else and when I heard the news all I could think of is that it is all just such a waste. I would like to send my sympathy to Alison and kids and let them know that they are in my thoughts. Goodbye Rob, you’ll be missed.”

Dom Smith

***

“I wish to express my great sadness at hearing the terrible news of Rob’s death and offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends and colleagues. As a Specsavers director for 20 years our paths crossed at meetings and seminars and Rob will be remembered as a true gent and someone who lead his business with enthusiasm, innovation and humility and with a considerable degree of success. He will be badly missed by many.”

Nicholas Abercrombie

***

“A terrible tragedy for Alison and her kids, their families, friends, Dinnington Rugby Club and the town of Dinnington. Why is it always the best ones that are taken so early?”

Ash Morton

***

“I dont know the family on a personal level but my son grew up a year below theirs so i have known them throughout school. I would like to send my deepest sympathy to Alison and the children, no words can make this better such a terrible thing to happen to such a lovely man. sending love and hugs.”

Louise & Ethan

***

“I have known Rob for 34 years on and off both as a school mate and as my landlord and was deeply shocked to hear of his death mine and my families thoughts go out to his partner Alison and his children on their loss. He was a kind, friendly and a great man to know and he will be missed by us all.”

Steve Hart

***

“Like everyone else I’m left gutted and utterly stunned by the loss of Rob and am struggling to put words together to express how I feel. Just looking at all the the other comments however sums Rob up – genuine, dedicated, fun, happy, caring, amazing Dad, mate, respected, Big hearted, Big man, Big smile, gentleman .... the list goes on but the fact that they’re all consistent and true, well just describes everything about him. His impact on so many has been immense.

Going back 30 odd years I’ve only ever known people, young, old and from every walk of life, say good things about Rob – The fact is that’s because to put it simply, he was good, and had a special ability to make you feel good (about yourself and most things) by just being around him. I’d not seen Rob for a while until a couple of years or so ago but it didn’t make any difference he was just the same happy Rob. My then two-year-old son even loved seeing him when we used to meet up regularly at Big Tops after that, which considering he had phobia about men with beards, well again says it all. Like everyone else I don’t feel that good now but if we keep thinking of the good man we might do eventually. Bye Rob mate.”

Tim Justice

***

“I am totally shocked, sadded and to be honest angry that we have lost a good man in such tragic circumstances. You could not have wished to meet a nicer person. My heart goes out to his family.”

Chris Bott & family.

***

“I can’t believe I’m even writing this, I am so shocked that this has happened to such an amazing guy. I worked for Rob for five years and he was an amazing boss, so friendly and such a laugh. He knew how to make me blush everytime he saw me and it became such a joke. My heart & thoughts go out to Alison and the kids along with all his family. Goodbye Rob, it was great to have known you. xx”

Vicky, Phil & Jacob

***

“We will all miss Robs big grin and kind words to encourage the lads. Our hearts go out to Alison,Thomas and the twins. Dinnington rugby club will never be quite the same again.”

Steve, Sue, Jamie Natalie and Francessca Rupik

***

“I cannot believe I am writing in a book of condolence for Rob. He was such a gentle giant, always smiling and laughing. He always had time for everybody- be it a chat or a shoulder to cry on. I was always greeted with the biggest bear hug every time I went in. The staff, employed or locums, were treated like family. Things will never be the same now his cheeky smiling face has been taken from us. My thoughts go to his family, the Specsavers family and to all that had the good fortune to know him. May God bless your soul Rob, you were the nicest guy and will be sorely missed.”

Sarita

***

“I grew up with Rob. We lived on the same estate in South Anston, went to junior school together then to the same comprehensive school. He used to copy my homework the lazy so-and-so. I didn’t mind. After school, I lost touch with him for many years until my dad happened to go into his opticians in Chesterfield. Typically my dad asked for a “friends” discount. Typically, Rob said yes. I can’t remember one occasion when he seemed less than happy with life or didn’t have a smile on his face. I don’t know his family, but remember meeting him again shortly after the birth of his son. ‘It used to be all about the rugby,’ he told me, ‘now it’s all about him’. I can imagine that he was a great dad. My heartfelt condolences go out to you all.”

Mike Speight

***

“I was shocked and devastated to hear the news of Rob Hurdley’s tragic death yesterday. My heart goes out to his family and close friends, particularly my brother Ray, who I know loved him so much. I have such fond memories of Rob and Ray’s other school friends hanging out at my Mum’s house at Christmas for bacon butties and sing-songs with Dad at the piano. It’s hard to imagine that it was over 30 years ago.They have all remained close friends ever since, a tribute to what a loving, caring person Rob was. When I think of Rob I see his brilliant warm smile - a truly sad loss - he will be sorely missed by many.”

Jayne Tyler nee Boocock

***

“Shocked and still finding it hard to believe that one of the nicest, genuine and friendliest of mates anybody could have wished for has been taken from us. I am proud and lucky to have grown up with Rob through school and to have had so many great times together on and off the pitch. Rob remains the only man I’ve ever known to have once charmed the gloves off a policewoman (Huddersfield post match 1988/9). I am proud to have counted Rob as a friend. Rob, you’ll be badly missed.”

John Cocking

***

“My optician, who became my friend. Professional, successful and courteous (a true gent), while being witty and always smiling. I am deeply shocked and saddened by the news. Goodbye Rob, it was an honour to know you, you’re already being missed, Rest In Peace. Deepest condolences to his family.”

Richard Davenport

***

“I was gutted to hear of Robs death, I cannot put into words how sorry I am. Many of the parents within Daniels’ and Thomas’s class became good friends and I am am sure that was down to Robs exuberance. He was so uplifting, so friendly, welcoming. So much time for other people, moving them and changing their life. Sadly missed.”

Yvonne, Ronan and Daniel

***

“Not living in Yorkshire anymore, news travels quickly when we’ve lost a good lad. Rob was always a polite, good mannered guy who always called me Gary, not Curt (probably Alison’s influence). Terrible news and will be much missed. Heart goes out to Alison, the children, Rob’s family and all who were close to him.”

Gary Curtis

***

“I’d like to offer my condolences to Rob’s family. Rob (and Thomas) have been regular faces in my shop for many years. Always brought a smile to my face, a real gentleman and clearly very proud of his family, always speaking of them - his pride at Thomas’ rugby talents in particular. I’ll miss our chats putting the world to rights. Such a sad loss for you all.”

Diane Ridley (Speciality Sandwich Co)

***

“I had the pleasure of meeting Rob through Bondhay Golf Club I was an employee he a member, we use to have some great laughs. Fortunately our social circle of friends meant we would still meet over the years and I got the privilege to meet his lovely wife Alison. I would like to send my sympathy to Alison and family and to say you are in our thoughts at this time. Rest in Peace Rob.”

Stelle Lindley

***

“So sad to hear of the passing of Rob, a quiet family man taken from his loved ones in such a horrific and needless way, deepest sympathy.”

Ian Law and family

***

“I was (and still am) totally shocked and devastated at the news of Rob’s death on Monday morning in such tragic circumstances. Having known Rob for over 30 years he was such a kind, considerate, funny, great friend and business/family man who didn’t deserve to leave this earth so young. From knowing Rob from aged 11 to present he hasn’t changed one bit, still has that great smile on his face. You have affected so many lives Rob and for many life will never be the same. My thoughts go out to the family especially Alison and the kids.”

Nicky Marshall

***

“Such a tragedy what a wonderful man, a great personality. Rob always had a smile and always made time to chat to everyone. He loved and lived for his family our thoughts go out to Ali, Thomas, Lydia and Henry and his extended family.

The world has lost a true gent R.I.P Mr Rob Hurdley.”

Kenny, Kate and family DRUFC

***

“Extremely saddened to hear of the passing of a lovely man. My heart goes out to Alison and the children. He was always such a friendly person and I ll miss his smiling face in the playground each day.”

Laura, Lee and the children

***

“Rob was a giant amongst men. One of the good guys! He had time for anyone and everyone. He built a fantastic team with Naz in the Specsavers in Chesterfield and as such has left a truly amazing legacy. He approached life with passion whether it be family, rugby, football, business or friendships and was always up for a beer. My thoughts are with Alison, Thomas, Henry and Lydia, Rob’s partner and children and also Paul, his brother. RIP Rob, my life is richer for having known you.”

Paul Frewin

***

“It’s hard to comprehend that Rob, that lovely smiling, caring bear of a man has gone. We know Rob through Dinnington Rugby Club where he’s been a fabulous example of what a competitive game with strong family values is all about. Coaching my son for the last few years he’s been inspiring, blooming tough and yet someone positive who all the lads look up to. Rugby aside, he showed my eldest son great compassion and understanding through a difficult and challenging time last year and kept coming back to our home to motivate and check he was doing well – he didn’t have to do that, but he did because that was Rob. I sit here tearful thinking of Rob and how his tragic loss means something different to different people, but what appears to be consistent throughout is that we all miss him dearly and most probably always will. Huge hugs and deepest love to Alison, Tom, Henry and Lydia through this terrible time. May his wonderful memory stay strong with you always.”

Bev, Sam and Max Alderton-Sambrook

***

“Rob was a great supporter of the Woodsetts Parent Teachers Association, always willing to spare his time at our events, with bags of enthusiasm and a smile on his face, and always generous. He will be sorely missed.”

Woodsetts Primary School PTA

***

“We would like to offer our deepest condolences to Alison, Thomas, Henry and Lydia at this tragic time. It seems so unfair. Keep those precious memories with you always. Love to you all.”

Caroline, Andrew, Emily and Lily Cryer

***

“So so shocked to hear what happened to a true gentleman. My thoughts of Rob are expressed by so many people. My strength is sent to your family at this dreadful time. RIP ROB.

Michele Monckton

***

“I knew Rob as a friend and colleague for many years. His constant humour and wit often kept us entertained at many a boring meeting. Everybody who came into contact with him was touched by his humility and charm and I always looked forward to his company. Goodbye Rob, you were simply the best and I will always remember you.”

Pete Rooke

***

“Absolutely at a loss for words. Rob was my boss several years ago and we had remained friends. He was always there with words of support (or just a big hug) in times of need and one of the first to be happy for you, and make sure you knew it, in the good times. Such a genuinely lovely man who will be very sorely missed. My heart goes out to Alison and the children to lose him in such awful circumstances. Sleep well Rob.”

Jo and Zach

***

“The news of Rob’s death in such tragic circumstances has been a great shock. He was always great company and had the ability to make everyone smile with his quick wit. He was a true gentleman and enriched the lives of those who had the pleasure of spending time with him. My thoughts and prayers are with Alison, the children and all his family. Rest in peace Rob!”

Dean Wood

***

“A true privilege to have known such a fine bloke. Always a joke and a laugh with Rob since I was a kid in South Anston. Love to all his family and sorrow for your loss. RIP Rob.”

Matt Bainbridge.

***

“I knew Robert when he was a teenager, he was a lovely fella. My thoughts are with the family.”

Marie Ford was Milner

***

“Just want to pass on my deepest sympathy to Robs family, we worked together for quite a few years in Optics at Specsavers and previous company and paths crossed all over the optical world. Such a gentle giant in store and so funny and loved by patients. Such a terrible loss and thoughts with you all.”

Cathie Rainbow

***

“I’ve only known Rob since Specsavers opened in Chesterfield. We always used to have such a good laugh and set the world to rights when I went into the store – and it was always a great pleasure to meet up with him. He struck me as a genuine good guy with a great sense of humour, bags of personality and a true professional. What a very sad loss! My heartfelt condolences to his colleagues, friends and – above all – his wife and children.”

Sue Cawood

***

“I grew up on the same road as Rob from the age of 3 and for the first few years I just knew him as my pal Paul’s big brother. As I reached drinking age and headed to the local pubs I knew him as Rob, the big friendly guy who always had a smile and a friendly hug for me no matter how long it had been since I’d last seen him. I am shocked, saddened and struggling to get my head round what has happened - Sam.”

“I can’t believe I’m writing this, I’ve known Rob since we were 11, playing rugby and drinking with him. All Rob brought to this world was good, he will be sadly missed - Jamie.”

“Our hearts go out to all Rob’s family.”

Jamie and Sam Baird (Henderson)

***

“Was looking forward to bringing my side to play yours next Easter. The world has lost a genuine Husband Father and a friend to so many. We are going to miss you and our love goes to your family.”

Dave Carr

***

“Rob you are sadly missed by all- old and young. You inspired kids particularly at rugby, and were a friend to all who knew you. Alison, Tom, Henry and Lydia adored you and you them. I can’t think how much they must miss you. I just hope they can get strength from all the people like mewhose lives Rob touched and enriched and who will miss him too. RIP Rob.”

Jane Needham

***

“Having taught Robert chemistry at Wales High School I knew him as an excellent pupil and who developed into a pleasant, mature and courteous young man. I am saddened by the news of his tragic death. I’d like to send my sincere condolences to his family.”

John Williams

***

“Total disbelief and shock at knowing such terrible circumstance has taken Rob so young from his beautiful family. Rob was a true gentleman, a lovely lovely guy and had one of the most infectious smiles I have ever seen. He will be missed so much by so many. Our condolences, thoughts and love are with Alison, Thomas, Lydia and Henry (Double Trouble), and all Rob’s family.”

Tracy, Johnny, Tyler and Kenzie

***

“I am struggling to accept Rob’s unexpected and tragic death and it is something I will never understand. My heart goes out to his family.

I have known Rob for almost 40 years, having lived on the same road as him since I was 6 years old. We went though school together and in our later years, were part of a social group going out to the local pubs. Rob has always been a friend, and whenever we saw each other he always had a hug for me and the big smile he is known for. He was dedicated to his family and so proud of his children, in fact one of the last times I saw him, his face lit up as he told me about Thomas and his rugby prowess.

Rob had such a big heart and would do anything for anyone, he was a lovely lovely man who has touched so many people’s lives.

My thoughts and love go out to Robs family who I think about everyday.”

Nicola Henderson

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