Hartlepool entrepreneur dies at the age of 82

Joe Musgrave, 82, from Belle Vue, first went into business selling pre-packed meat to local workers and pubs. When he retired he was head of a company worth millions.

He and wife Mary set up business in the fifties selling meat to workers finishing their shifts at British Steel and ICI as well as pubs and clubs.

The couple, who have three children, Lynn, Lesley-Ann and Christopher, branched out into fruit and vegetables, running three shops in Hartlepool and selling at markets.

In 1990 Joe and son Christopher established JCM, a company specialising in supermarkets refurbishments and then moved into property.

A strong supporter of local charities, Joe was a patron of Hartlepool Hospice as well as a partner of the Butterwick Hospice.

He was diagnosed with cancer four years ago and lost his fight for life last week.

Chris said: “Mam and dad worked tirelessly to give us kids the best possible start in life. Mam was his rock right up to his last breath.

“Joe’s was a well lived life, filled with love and happiness. He was a gentle, generous man who loved to laugh, adored his garden and going to the races.

“We’d like to thank all our friends and family for their kindness and especially the team at North Tees Hospital.”

The grandfather of three’s funeral will take place tomorrow at St Patrick’s RC Church at 1.45pm, prior to cremation in Stranton Grange Crematorium Chapel.