Funeral director retiring to Ireland

He has been at Reynolds for 29 years, having joined the company in 1988.

Mr Wileman said he first started as a funeral director with a family firm in London in 1972, before moving south.

Some families have built a real connection and Michael has a bag full of thank you letters from over the years.

When his retirement was announced on the Reynolds Funeral Service Facebook page, the response was speedy and the messages were very moving.

Antony Cleall, office manager, said: “He is a very private man. He was surprised with the response when we posted it on Facebook, with all the lovely comments.

“Mr Wileman has conducted thousands of funerals and has earned the respect of many families and the staff he has worked with.

“His knowledge of the funeral trade is second to none and he will be missed by his colleagues and many families in Bognor Regis and surrounding area.

“When he retires he will be moving from Bognor Regis and is looking forward to spending much more time riding his motorbike and relaxing while fishing, one of his favourite hobbies.”

Mr Wileman will be moving to Ireland to live near his daughter and her children and he is looking forward to spending time with them.

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