Mr Sam McBride

MR Sam McBride, from the Temple, who died in hospital aged 80 on December 8, was a self-made man with an unquenchable thirst for life.

Blessed with infectious enthusiasm, a never-say-die spirit and full of fun, he was larger than life. In everything he did, whether as a farmer, businessman, sports enthusiast, family man and friend, he did it to the full.

In many respects he was ‘Mr Temple.’ He built Temple Shopping Centre, which includes McBride Fashions, developed Temple Golf Club, was the driving force behind Temple Motor Cycle Club for many years and was a founder member and stalwart of Temple Vintage and Classic Club.

To his wife, Valerie, he was a loving husband, partner and soulmate. To his children, Joe, Mark and Sharron, he was a doting father. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family.

He had an unshakeable will to succeed and immense drive, which meant that his achievements were many. He believed in hard work, but he also believed in enjoying himself.

He loved motor cycle racing. He was a past chairman and clerk of course of the Temple club and was an ever present figure at the Temple 100 meeting. He loved all things mechanical and looked forward each summer to the Temple vintage and classic show.

He also loved people. His friendships were many and the people he met quickly realised they were in the presence of someone special. Generous and kind-hearted, Sam was always willing to lend a helping hand. He selflessly raised thousands of pounds for charities and thought of others less fortunate than himself

A celebration of Sam’s life was held in Temple Golf Club last Tuesday, December 12. In a moving tribute, his daughter, Sharron, said that wherever her father went his “personality led the way like a light.”

She said: “He made the most of each day and understood what it meant to be alive. No day was wasted, hard work was all he knew. He met every challenge head-on as the business grew. With mum by his side, he would never fail and they achieved so much as team down to the finest detail.

“Growing up as his children was always fun and filled with joy. For although dad was very much a man, inside he was always a boy. How lucky we are to have grown up with such a legend. Dad was our mentor, our father and friend.”

The sympathy of the community is extended to his family.