Brian Nealon 1944 – 2010
The fork lift truck world will be saddened to hear of the loss of industry leader Brian Nealon, who passed away unexpectedly on Monday 29th November.
A native of Coventry, Brian’s career in the materials handling industry began in 1959 with an apprenticeship with Coventry Climax. He joined Lansing Bagnall in 1966 where his warm, affable manner brought immediate sales success.
Just 12 years later Brian set up his own fork lift truck dealership – Bendigo Mitchell – in Kenilworth. Since 1978, he served as managing director of this independent hire, sales and service company.
For many years, he served with distinction as a Board member of the Fork Lift Truck Association. After being its vice chairman and chairman, Brian became FLTA president in 1999, holding the post for an unprecedented four years.
In honour of the significant role he played in securing the Association’s success, Brian was honoured with the FLTA’s ‘Archie’ for Services to the Fork Lift Truck Association in 2004.
Presenting the Award, then Chairman Brian Warbrick said: “Brian is a man whose knowledge, experience and enthusiasm is greatly appreciated by everybody within the Association.”
Today, FLTA chief executive David Ellison agrees: “Brian was a highly respected representative of the Fork Lift Truck Association, having served on the Board for many years. He was extremely active throughout his service, and, as both Chairman and President, was always a tremendous ambassador for our whole industry.
Brian’s loss is a great shock, and he will be sadly missed.”
Brian is survived by his wife Wendy. His son, Duncan, has taken over as managing director of Bendigo Mitchell Ltd.
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