Thomas 'Thosh' Kellett, long-time principal of bed brand Respa Beds, based in Oldcastle, Co Meath, has passed away.
In a statement, the business states: "On the behalf of the company, it is with deep regret that we inform you of the passing of Thomas 'Thosh' Kellett, surrounded by his loving family.
"Thosh joined the company alongside his father in the 1960s. As MD up to 2012 and chairman until he retired in 2017, he successfully developed the business to be the largest employer in Oldcastle.
"Following a devastating fire which gutted the premises in 2000, he rebuilt the business and a few years later was longlisted for EY Entrepreneur of the Year.
"The growth of the Respa brand to the household name that it is today is largely a result of his vision and direction down thro’ the years. Numerous generations of many families have worked in the business over the years.
"On behalf of the company, we offer our condolences to his beloved wife Ann, his sisters Mary, Juno and Dolly, his children Robert, Nicole, Darren and Richard, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be available here in the coming days."
