TRIBUTES have been paid to a former chairman of North Wales Business Club and HSBC banker.

David Wyn Williams, aged 77, who was absolutely passionate about North Wales, has died. He was born in Bangor and brought up in Llanrwst.

Peter Smith, General Secretary of the North Wales Business Club said: “David was chairman of the club for about 20 years and was a great ambassador for the area.

“He was an HSBC area director and he made a huge contribution to the club and the North Wales economy. In addition to being passionate about North Wales he was equally passionate about football and Welsh rugby.

“He was very courteous and an absolute gentleman.”

His son James said: “He was an incredibly passionate man who did nothing by halves. He was a huge Liverpool FC supporter and Wales rugby fan, and attended many matches.

“He was a devoted family man, and leaves behind his wife, my mother, Diana who has been by his side for more than 50 years. He also leaves behind two sisters, me and my sister Natalie Williams and his grandchildren.

James added: “He believed in the power of people, and would make introductions across businesses in North Wales like no other, with no hidden agenda other than to create growth and prosperity. He received an MBE for services to business in North Wales in 2015.

“Dad worked tirelessly for Ty Gobaith and supported them since their founding. He loved music and film and would easily find a topic to connect with anyone over a pint. He was often heard saying: life's too short, meaning you need to take a few risks in life and always to do the things that you love.”

James said that since David’s passing the family has received many tributes from friends and business associates, he quoted a few: “David was quite simply unique and amazing, a multi-talented banker and advisor with exceptional people skills whose professional achievements across banking, business, education, and the community are totally outstanding.

“North Wales has lost a beacon of light and a wonderful business ambassador.

“I will remember the energy and enthusiasm that he brought to everything he did, the wealth of knowledge and the analytical ability he was able to bring, A deeply caring man, always able to do the little things to help anyone out.

“David was one of the most respected individuals in North Wales.

“David was such a hard working, dedicated public servant, a great ambassador for North Wales

“David was an inspiration that will be greatly missed by all.

“No one has been more encouraging to me in my business endeavours. He was and always will be a shining example of the difference one man can make.”

The funeral will be held at Holy Trinity Church, Llandudno at 12:30pm on Thursday January 31.

Donations in loving memory would be very much appreciated to St David’s Hospice, online via https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/SomeoneSpecial/DavidWynWilliams or c/o Scott Owen, Tom Owen and sons funeral directors.