A businessman lovingly dubbed the "King of Montpelier" has died just days after his 88th birthday.
Carmelo Licata was described by his family as a "local legend" who was well-known in the Italian community in Bristol, having lived and traded here for more than half a century.
He was the man behind C&T Licata & Son in Montpelier, the food and wine delicatessen in Picton Street, which he founded in 1959.
The great-grandfather-of-four died earlier this month after health complications including lung disease, and his loved ones have now led tributes in his memory.
His daughter Josephine Lattuca said: "Our Papa, our dad, Signor Licata, King of Montpelier, Boss, passed away peacefully on July 19.
"For those who knew him he was a highly respected businessman - his love of life was his family and his work.
"The business grew from strength to strength because of his dedication, charisma and strong work ethic."
Carmelo lived in Stoke Bishop with his wife Teresa, having moved to England after their marriage in 1956, settling in Bristol three years later.
They never intended to stay in England but Josephine said it became an "everlasting honeymoon," and they brought up their four children here.
He was able to celebrate his 88th birthday with close family on July 16, before his passing three days later.
His daughter added: "Life will never be the same without him – he was our everything."
Carmelo grew up in the town of Aragona in Sicily but left home at the age of 18, no longer wishing to work the land.
He began working in coal mines but, after his first son Stefano was born, started to realise his ambition to become a salesman.
His passion for Italian produce began life as a door-to-door business, selling pasta from a van, before he opened the shop in Montpelier in 1959.
Josephine said: "We became leading catering suppliers in the South West, alongside property rentals.
"Within the Italian community, he helped many with their own aspirations of opening a business by lending them his own money on the strength of a handshake.
"Although his working hours were long he had time for everyone’s problem, almost having the task of a councillor."
Carmelo only retired at the age of 83 and used to say the phrase “il lavoro mobilita", meaning “work keeps you active."
He was proud to see his children Josephine, Stefano and Adelina step up to help take on the business, as well as his son-in-law Gino and daughter-in-law Assunta.
Josephine added: "He was so driven.
"When you start from nothing and make it a success, it's not the same as when you've been handed it.
"He loved wheeling and dealing and he was very good at it."
The family businessman, who had nine grandchildren, was also a keen gardener and a dedicated fan of Chelsea football club.
His funeral is scheduled to take place at Sacred Heart Church on Friday, August 7, at 11am.
Due to the coronavirus restrictions, only immediate family are allowed to attend, but well-wishers can make donations if they wish to the COPD Foundation.
When restrictions are eased, the family hopes to welcome more friends for a memorial celebrating Carmelo's life.
