Leeds welfare chiefs have led the tributes to one of the community’s most generous benefactors, Leslie Silver, who has died, aged 89.
Although born in London’s East End, Mr Silver lived most of his life in Leeds, where his family moved to escape the Blitz.
After military service, he set up a paint company with a £250 gratuity. When he retired in 1991, the business, latterly known as the Kalon Group, had a £100 million turnover. He chaired Leeds United football club from 1983-96 and was the first chancellor of Leeds Metropolitan University.
Leeds Jewish Welfare Board president Edward Ziff said: “Leslie never knew how to say ‘no’ when asked for a donation. He said ‘yes’ to me many times.
“He gave without conditions and didn’t realise that his generous donations were making such a difference to people’s lives. When this was pointed out to him by word or by letter, he was visibly moved.”
Geoff Caplan, life president of care home Donisthorpe Hall, recalled that “Donisthorpe was always close to Mr Silver’s heart. His huge contribution helped us build a 40-bed en suite unit, Silver Lodge, in 2003. It was through this donation that further developments were generated, helping the home to become one of the finest in the country.”
