Stephen Wade was one of the North West’s best-known commercial property professionals and had worked at Legat Owen for more than 25 years. Tony McDonough reports
One of the North West’s best-known commercial property professionals, Stephen Wade of Legat Owen, has died aged 55, the firm announced on Monday.
Stephen, who graduated with a degree in Urban Estate Surveying from Nottingham Trent University in 1988, had worked for Legat Owen for more than 25 years and was a director at the firm. He was based in the Chester office.
In a statement, fellow director Peter Johnston said: “It is with immense sadness that we confirm the sudden and unexpected death of our friend and colleague Stephen Wade who passed away this morning.
“Stephen has played a pivotal role in Legat Owen’s business for over 25 years and we are all devastated at his loss. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tragic time and we ask that their privacy is respected while they come to terms with this terrible news.”
On his LinkedIn page, Stephen, who was a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, described himself as “one of the fortunate ones”. He added: “I really enjoy my career and I am lucky enough to be working with some really great people at Legat Owen. I love the buzz of completing a deal or solving a complex real estate issue for a client.”
He was a qualified expert witness, having appeared at several planning inquiries, and was also a board member for two North Wales Enterprise Zones. He has also spent six years as chairman of Triton Hockey Club in South Cheshire. He helped expand the club, growing the number of teams and members.
Stephen also spent several years spearheading a campaign to deliver a new sports hub as part of the redevelopment of the Alsager Campus of the MMU. The hub has now been completed and is widely used by the community.
On his Linked In page, he also said: “I am lucky to have a core of very loyal clients for whom I have had the pleasure of working for over the last 25 years at Legat Owen. Trust is hard won and easily lost and integrity is the key to the strength of those relationships.”