David John Egan, a well-known figure in London's Covent Garden Market, passed away recently at the age of 82. Born in Lambeth on March 19, 1943, David spent his early years in Ewell and Kingston upon Thames, where he attended Stoneleigh West Primary School and later St Agatha's in Kingston.
At age 15, he began his career in the original Covent Garden Market, working in the offices of Poupart before moving to Hemsley's in the Tin Market. He later became a potato merchant with his own stand in the fruit and vegetable market.
© New Covent Garden Market
The family business, John Egan & Sons, was established by his grandfather and operated in the Covent Garden Flower Market. When the market relocated, David joined his father and brother in the business during the 1980s. The company supplied foliage to florists and shops across London and the UK. After his father's passing in 2001, David took over the business and led it until his retirement in 2011, when the company closed.
David was known throughout the flower market community for his friendly nature and work ethic. Colleagues remember him as one of the first to arrive each day and one of the last to leave.
He is survived by his wife, Diane, whom he met in Kingston in 1959 at a youth club, their two sons, Andrew and Philip, their wives, Alena and Angela, and grandsons Liam and Sean.
David's funeral will be held on Wednesday, November 26, at 12:40 p.m. at North East Surrey Crematorium, Lower Morden Lane, Morden, Surrey (SM4 4NU). A wake will follow at Sutton Bowling Club, Bowling Way, Sutton, Surrey (SM2 6FF).
Instead of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Alzheimer's Society in David's memory.
© New Covent Garden MarketFor more information:
Covent Garden Market Authority
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7720 2211
Email: [email protected]
www.newcoventgardenmarket.com
