HUNDREDS mourned the death of Northcliffe media training manager, Graham Beesley at a funeral service at Grimsby Minster.
His friend and vicar, Rev Canon Andy Hawes said Graham's life had been "cut cruelly short".
As reported, the 59-year-old died at his home in North Cotes a month ago due to a faulty wood burner releasing carbon monoxide gas.
His death has led to a campaign appealing to all homeowners to check their appliances and ensure a carbon monoxide detector is fitted.
Hundreds of homes in North East Lincolnshire are more secure since the tragedy thanks to the campaign which has included the donation of free carbon monoxide detectors by Humberston and North Sea Lions and North East Lincolnshire Council.
Canon Hawes said: "Graham did not waste a day of his life. He lived in 60 years what most people would live in 100 years."
He hailed his outstanding achievements in mountaineering and skiing.
The vicar is a cousin to one of Mr Beesley's closest friends, Ian Robinson and they all regularly met up each year.
The vicar's brother, composer Patrick Hawes wrote "How Hill" as a requiem.
His tribute to How Hill near The River Ant in Norfolk, which was frequently visited by Mr Beesley and friends, was expertly played on the harp by Lucy Haslar.
Tribute was also paid by Northcliffe media colleague, Michael French.
He said Mr Beesley had started with the company's circulation department in Grimsby in 1975.
It was the start of 35 years' service to the company.
Mr French said: "You don't see that very much nowadays."
He said his colleague gave his time selflessly and gave strong leadership, embraced new technology and was a great team player.
But he never sought the limelight despite working in an industry filled with "egos and prima donnas," he said.
He said the two of them had kept in close touch having taken early retirement two years ago.
Both enjoyed hill walking and Mr Beesley was due to help him move house later this month.
God daughters Charlotte Evison and Grace Robinson paid moving tributes to their godfather "Bop."
Charlotte said: "Bop was the kindest, coolest, most down to earth person anyone could ever have in their lives. He was the "uncle" that everyone should have.
"We feel blessed to have known him and had his influence on our paths to adulthood."
