Our great friend Dennis (David) Wise

Hi, Ben and Lou from Wax and Beans here and we are fundraising on behalf of our close friend Dennis' family.

Dennis previously worked at the record shop Vibes in Bury town centre and was a well-known and much-loved member of our community. On opening our shop four years ago, he gave us some very valued advice and opinions that helped us create the successful business we have today. Not only that, he became part of our little business, alongside his son James, even before we opened our doors - regularly popping his head in whilst we were DIYing! Dennis was part of our family - we spent a lot of time with him and James, including social trips to Nandos, dog walks with Luna, firework displays, the Arcade Club and gigs, as well as LOTS of time inside the shop.

On hearing of Dennis' passing, we were both shocked and devastated. Dennis had taken some time out of the shop with a chest infection, but never did we imagine he wouldn't return to work.

Dennis was a huge music fan and particularly enjoyed hip-hop and dance music, which no doubt you'll remember from his days at Vibes. Dennis worked in our staffroom, which also doubled up as our packing area for online orders (he was after all our self-proclaimed Head of Worldwide Distribution!) Dennis and Ben would often have a music battle, each trying to demonstrate they had the better taste in music... all whilst I was trying to act professional on corporate calls in the corner. We had so much banter and fun times, as well as a bit of squabbling thrown in too, but that happens in any family!

We will remember Dennis for many things, but none more so than his ability to wind anyone and everyone up. He loved it! From name calling ('Football Hooligan' for me) to telling customers he'd sold their saved records, he always brought a smile to everyone's face. He couldn't walk through the shop without stopping to chat or have a drink or some food with someone. Even on his days off he'd still be sat in the shop chatting away!

As well as his passion for all things music, Dennis also loved his Adidas trainers (always asking for some as a present from our holidays), Man United and of course his beloved son James. His world revolved around James. He was so very, very proud to have James as his son and the whole world knew it.

On behalf of his family, we'd like to raise as much as possible to help his family and James with the planning of his funeral. Whilst money is no replacement for people, it will go some way to supporting his son and family through this very difficult time.

We do not yet have the details of his funeral or any other arrangements, but we can provide an update here once the family announce this information.

Thank you to anyone that shares or donates.

Rest in eternal peace. We love you Dennis ❤️