A former detective and charity founder who spent many decades helping others took his own life just nine days after the death of his wife, an inquest has heard.
Andrew James Howarth, 73, of Cleckheaton, died on May 20 after struggling to come to terms with the loss of his true love, Helen, who died on May 11.
Mrs Howarth passed away after being found unresponsive in her car. She was taken to St James's University Hospital, Leeds, where she suffered a catastrophic stroke.
Mr Howarth served as a detective for 30 years
Assistant Coroner Brocklehurst said: “Andrew James Howarth was born on 6 March 1953 in Leeds to Molly and James Howarth.”
She said he worked at a law firm as a trainee before becoming a police officer.
Mr Howarth served as a detective from the age of 19 until he was 49. He also completed a law degree before retiring.
The couple set up the successful Howarths Foundation, seen here winning an award (Image: Open Communications UK)
In 2003, he and Helen set up a charity, Howarths Foundation, to help homeless people find jobs.
The couple had two children together, Gavin Howarth and Christopher Howarth.
'He showed us that it was never too late to follow your dreams'
Giving evidence, Mr Howarth’s son, Gavin, described his father’s interests and work.
Gavin Howarth said: “He never stopped doing what he loved.
“He loved reading, especially history, and music. The Beatles were his favourite band.
“He played the guitar, and went to a lot of gigs with Mum.
“He had a passion for football and managed some local teams. He was also a Leeds United fan and had a season ticket.
“As the years went on, he eventually got a seat at Elland Road and often would meet players before the games.
“Everyone knew my parents.”
He continued: “In 2003, he started a business to help people who are homeless find jobs.
“He showed us that it was never too late to follow your dreams.”
'He was receiving support from mental health services'
The inquest heard that Mr Howarth wanted to be alone to grieve after the recent death of Helen.
He was receiving support from mental health services.
Gavin said: “We wanted to look after him, as he was so devastated by Mum’s passing.
“Sadly that evening, Dad attempted to take his own life.
“We were able to call 999 and six paramedics came and took him to St James’ Hospital.
“Dad was in a critical condition.”
After recovering, Mr Howarth was released from hospital on May 15.
His family were told he was mentally well.
He spoke to the mental health team the following day and said he did not want visits over the weekend.
A visit was planned for May 18.
On May 16, he planned a barbecue with his family, but became tearful and cancelled it.
Gavin said his father was grieving but appeared to be coping.
The family attended Leeds United’s final game of the season on May 17.
A tribute to Helen appeared in the programme.
Mr Howarth was visited by mental health teams on the Monday and Tuesday.
Gavin said he was upset but seemed himself.
At 7.56pm, Mr Howarth sent a message to the family group saying he was going to have an early night.
'My mum was his true love and he didn't want to be without her'
A neighbour, Carl Hedley, found him at his home at 11.34am on May 20.
Gavin said: “The next morning, at 11.30am, Carl Hedley, a neighbour and employee, arrived at Mum and Dad’s house and said that Dad had passed away.
“My mum was his true love and he didn’t want to be without her.
“They had been married for 45 years.”
He added: “The staff offered as much support as they could."
'He was a loving father and loved by all of his family'
Concluding the inquest, Assistant Coroner Brocklehurst said: “I conclude that the death of Andrew James Howarth came about due to an act of suicide.
“I am more sorry than I can say.
“Andrew was an amazing man in many ways. Not only in his business and career, but in the work he did for others.
“He was a loving father and was loved by all of his family.
“His death is a tragedy.”
She offered her condolences to the family and said Mr Howarth’s relatives had memories of him as a father, husband and grandfather.
Assistant Coroner Brocklehurst said: “It’s important when you can to talk together about it and the love that was given.”
- When life is difficult, Samaritans are available day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org.