Lynn Lewis, founder and Chairman of Nauticalia, passed away on 20 September 2018.
Lynn founded Nauticalia as a marine antiques business in 1974 aboard a converted rubbish barge on the Thames in Shepperton after a successful career in newspaper journalism and TV presenting, having worked on the Sunday Mirror and pioneering BBC’s Nationwide. His niche business quickly grew and he bought the Shepperton Thames-side boatyard in 1986 that remains the company headquarters today. Antiques were soon replaced with reproduction items – many sourced uniquely for Nauticalia and the company developed into a successful mail order business winning the Queen’s Award for Export in 1998.
Lynn was a long-serving and active member of The British Marine Federation, having chaired the Marine Trade Association 1986-89 and a Director of National Boat Shows 1988-1994. Often outspoken and non-conformist, Lynn was renowned for his thought-provoking debate.
When not working or relaxing on the Thames, Lynn enjoyed playing and watching cricket. He leaves his wife Val, children, Lindon and Carol, eight grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Lynn Lewis, 23 August 1937 – 20 September 2018
From Marine Industry News