The nursery retail trade has lost one of its most respected figures with the passing of Kevin Mark Clarkson, long-time owner of Paul Stride in York, who died peacefully at home on 23rd August at the age of 62.
For many years, Paul Stride was a fixture of the York nursery retail scene, supplying prams, car seats and nursery goods to families across the city and the surrounding areas. Kevin built the business on a reputation that mattered more than any single sale: quality, safety and honesty. Customers trusted him to steer them toward the right product for their family, and suppliers valued him as a straightforward, professional partner to work with. That reputation, earned over decades, is the clearest measure of what he achieved in the trade.
Kevin was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease last year, and it was this illness that led to the closure of the shop. Those who knew him and worked alongside him will remember not only the standards he set for the business, but the warmth and care he brought to it.
Away from the shop floor, Kevin is remembered by his family as a devoted husband to Philippa, a father to Toby and Eddy, and “Papo” to his grandchildren Abi, Sofi and Jasper. He was the son of Pauline and the late Alan, and brother to Karen. Friends and colleagues in the trade will also remember his love of colourful shirts, a small but fitting reflection of a character who was never afraid to stand out for the right reasons.
The funeral service will be held at York Crematorium on Wednesday 16th September at 12.20pm. In keeping with Kevin’s character, the family has asked that mourners wear a splash of colour in his memory. Family flowers only are requested, with donations instead welcomed for the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) and St Leonard’s Hospice. Funeral enquiries can be directed to Fielder & Sons, Pocklington.
Kevin Clarkson’s contribution to independent nursery retailing in York, and the standards of professionalism and trust he set for those in the trade, will not be forgotten.
