Bernard Thibaut, founder of the Thibaut stoneworking machinery company in Vire, France, died in May. He was 70.

Well-known for his simplicity, honesty and sense of respect, he started his business with his wife in 1959 supplying local stonemasonry companies with Jenny Linds.

In 1998 Bernard handed over the company to his sons, Jacques and Christophe. Today it employs 125 people producing machines that are sold all over the world to create a turnover of [euros]20million.

Bernard Thibaut brought a lot to the stone industry, innovating permanently and taking out many patents on the developments he made in machinery. He had a genuine passion for his company and the stone industry it served. Many customers became his friends.

The Thibaut family has been moved by the sympathy shown for the death of Bernard and wishes to express its sincere thanks to customers, suppliers and partners for their support.