Colleagues and family have paid tribute to founder of award-winning Staffordshire engineering company KMF, Michael “Mick” Higgins, who has passed away, aged 80, following a short illness.
He founded KMF with two colleagues from ICL, Kidsgrove in 1971, having previously worked in the metal shop there. The founders’ initials – Ken, Mick, and Fred – gave KMF its name.
He worked tirelessly to grow the company from a small business, starting in Lask Edge, moving to Smallthorne and then based in Hot Lane, Burslem for several years, before moving to the current site at High Carr Business Park, Newcastle-under-Lyme.
KMF Precision Sheet Metal now employs more than 500 people across multiple sites in the UK and Slovakia.
The company has been in the sole ownership of the Higgins family since late 2018, with Michael’s sons Gareth and Daniel at the helm.
Gareth described Mick as a hardworking entrepreneur – supported by his wife Patricia – who would always go the extra mile to support KMF’s customers, suppliers, and his staff.
He said: “Dad was hard but fair and always led by example. He was a skilled sheet metal worker and a manager who led with passion. He was never afraid to roll his sleeves up and get to work on the factory floor when orders needed completing. Dad was driven by targets and deadlines and would always ensure we got the completed jobs out on time.
“As an entrepreneur, he was always looking to grow the business and wasn’t afraid to take risks. He was the first in the country to invest in flat bed lasers, a new technique back then, but common place now. He would always invest in the latest machinery and equipment, ensuring KMF was always in the best place to grow.
“He was a young man, just 21 years old, when he started KMF. It was a courageous move for my mum and dad as they had a young daughter at home. The effort he put in to building a business was phenomenal and what we have now at KMF stands as a legacy to his hard work, expertise, and business acumen.
“I know he will be sadly missed across the industry and for Dan and me he was a brilliant mentor.”
KMF’s production facilities operate 24/7 and serve a wide range of customers in sectors including aerospace, food processing, electrical distribution, vending and telecoms.
Michael Higgins’ funeral will take place at Bradwell Crematorium at noon on November 10th. Family flowers only and a collection will be made to support the University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust. Donations can be made in person at the funeral, or online at www.justgiving.com/page/mick-higgins-1
Michael’s death is the second tragedy for the family in the last month, as his daughter, Gareth and Daniel’s sister Sharon, passed away in the Dougie Mac hospice at the end of September.
Really sorry to read about this tragic double loss for you Gareth. Commiserations to you, your Mother and your brother and all your extended family
We cant imagine the pain for the loss your all feeling at this time. You are all very much in our hearts prayers. Condolences to all of you at this saddest time.
Condolences to Pat, Gareth and Daniel and their families at this sad time.
Michael was a driving force behind KMF and was totally committed to growing the business. The move he oversaw to the modern factory in Newcastle and success of the business is testament to his hard work and vision . North Staffordshire needs more entrepreneurial businesses like his.
As well as creating employment and training for many , Michael led by example as a committed employer and through public service, including at St Margaret Ward Academy and Port Vale Community Foundation. He will be much missed.
What a man, such a life force and a dear, dear , loyal friend. We send our love and prayers to you all in this double loss of a beautiful daughter, wife, mother and sister, and beloved husband, father and grandad we loved you both very much Our thoughts and prayers are with your mum and all of you at this devastating time. Loves last gift is remembrance, and we will never forget you Rest in eternal peace .