Alex McLeod with his wife Sally in 2013. PHOTO/SUPPLIED
TOM TAYLOR
[email protected]
Alexander [Alex] McLeod, a pillar of Carterton’s retail scene, died peacefully at home on Saturday. He was 73.
McLeod opened his clothing store Alex McLeod’s on High St in 1972 and ran it until his retirement in 2013.
The store was renowned throughout the greater Wellington region and further afield, with many people travelling to Carterton to purchase quality suits.
Carterton Mayor Greg Lang said Alex McLeod’s was a mainstay of the central business district.
“His quality and his service was second to none,” Lang said. “His business was an institution.”
Former Carterton Mayor Ron Mark said the McLeods were an iconic family in Wairarapa.
Alex McLeod Snr had opened his first clothing shop in Featherston. His sons Alex and Richard had followed in his footsteps, Alex going on to establish the Alex McLeod’s branch in Carterton, and Richard buying Bullick Blackmore in Masterton.
“They are one of those old families who, over generations, contributed so much to the character of the community,” Mark said.
When Mark took up the mayoralty in 2010, he was a frequent customer of Alex McLeod’s and wore many of his suits.
“He was always cheerful, personable, and genuinely interested in what was going on in the community. He was one of those citizens you could always rely on to be concerned and wanting to do more for community groups.”
When McLeod retired in 2013, Mark had presented him with a certificate of recognition for his commitment to the town.
“The feeling around the council table and in the wider community was very strong that you deserve to be recognised and thanked for your enduring commitment and dedication to our town and district,” Mark had said.
McLeod is survived by his wife Sally, four children, and nine grandchildren.
A requiem mass was held in the Carterton Events Centre yesterday, followed by burial at the Featherston Lawn Cemetery.
