Tributes paid to 'much loved' Liverpool shop owner Kirpal Matta
"As much loved by his family as he was by our many wonderful customers over the years, we know many of you will want to share those memories, which is why we were keen to share this post, however sad it may be," the post said.Shop regular Ervine Okuboh responded by describing Mr Matta as "a great man". "I remember as a young child shopping at his shop in Granby St with my parents, as long ago as the mid-late 1960s. "Always smiling and always made you feel very welcome."Mr Matta always asked after my family and his children were just as pleasant and welcoming. What a wonderful man. Industrious, kind and caring."Another customer, Dave Hogan, said: "Throughout my many visits to the shop... I always came away with the sense that the shop represented the very epitome of 'family'."Nina Edge said: "Mr Matta is so loved. His contribution to Liverpool is immense."
In July 2024, when the store celebrated 40 years on Bold Street, Mr Matta spoke to BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Kev Duala.He described how he had been "honoured" to have spent nearly 60 years serving the local community."This place is still here because of the people," he explained.Mr Matta's sons, who now run the business, described how their parents had also created a "sense of community" within the shop."We have learned from my father and mother and they just treat everyone with kindness and friendship and love," said Dalip Matta."It's about caring and sharing - it's not just about profits."The family said information about Mr Matta's funeral and ceremony at Liverpool's Sikh temple is expected to be shared in coming days "should any of our friends and customers wish to attend".
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