Industry mourns Martin O’Donnell passing
A statement from Fix Auto MD, Ian Pugh:
It is great sadness and a heavy heart that I have to report the passing of Martin O’Donnell, one of the network’s true gentlemen and highly regarded and respected repairer. Our thoughts and best wishes are with his wife, Julie, and his family.
Martin was hugely respected by all. He was a dedicated, loyal and committed long-standing member of the Fix Auto UK family. He was one of those visionaries who joined the organisation as Fix Auto Bristol West while it was still in its infancy over here. For me, personally, Martin was also a good friend who spoke with true candour.
We fully respected Martin’s decision to sell his business and step away from the industry earlier this year, it is just so incredibly sad that his well-earned retirement has been cut so very short. It is extremely difficult to put into words, but Martin’s sudden passing has left us all totally shocked.
Louise Woolacott of Fix Auto Mid Devon and Newton Abbot paid tribute to her colleague, saying: “I am shocked and absolutely devastated by the news that Martin has sadly passed away. He was a true friend. A one in a million and I know all within the Fix Auto UK family and indeed, all who knew Martin, will be stunned by such sad news too. We have been in regular contact, as we always have been, and he never let on that he was suffering with ill health, that was just typical of him. He would not want any fuss. I am completely at a loss.”
