Frank Bertie Remembers Former NAPIT Trade Association Chairman Dennis Denholm
It is with a very sad heart that I have to inform you that the former Chairman of the NAPIT Trade Association, Dennis Denholm, passed away suddenly on the 22nd March 2015 at his home on the island of Jersey.
Dennis was a larger than life character, full of enthusiasm for the industry that he dedicated his working life to, an industry where he left a lasting impression on everyone who he came into contact with.
Following many happy years spent as an electrician, Dennis worked tirelessly as a college lecturer in Jersey Highland College, determined to improve the standard of electrical students starting out, as well as those already working within our industry.
Whilst with Highlands College, in-conjunction with NAPIT he was instrumental in bringing individual competence requirements to Jersey, especially in Inspection and Testing for electrical installation work.
Passionate about education from the outset and pursuing his long-held dream, he was later to gain a doctorate in electrical engineering education – an achievement of which he was extremely proud.
After meeting John Andrews, the former CEO and Founder of NAPIT, when he visited Jersey to run training courses for Highlands College and raise standards of Inspection on the island, they became friends. This resulted in John asking Dennis to become formally involved with NAPIT.
Dennis joined NAPIT first as a regional officer, later becoming a director and finally achieving the post of Chairman of the NAPIT Trade Association.
With his enthusiasm and vision, he helped to develop the Trade Association by creating the regional councils, increasing member involvement and ardently promoting electrical safety and related issues.
He brought a commonsense approach to tackling any concerns raised within the Trade Association and had a clear understanding of the issues facing the electrical industry.
Dennis eventually retired from NAPIT in 2012 to enjoy his life in Jersey, where he had lived happily for many years with his wife Carole and his family.
He was laid to rest on the 9th of April in Jersey and his ashes are to be returned to his home town just outside Newcastle to be laid with his mother and father.
Dennis was a loving husband, a caring father and a devoted friend.
Fondly remembered and sadly missed, he will never be forgotten by his former colleagues at NAPIT, his wife Carole, sons Benjamin, Zachary and daughter-in-law Debra.
Rest in peace you extraordinary man.
Article Published:
20 April 2015
trade association