My father, John Marston, who has died aged 87, was a dynamic and inspiring businessman, civil engineer, adventuring sailor and longstanding educational governor. His drive was always to find ways for individuals to fulfil their potential – he managed this through the running of the family businesses, promotion of apprenticeships and support for numerous charities.
Born in Wandsworth, south-west London, he was the son of Elsie (nee Shepherd) and John Marston, who ran the family construction company WJ Marston & Son, set up by his grandfather, William Marston. John Jr went to Dulwich college, in south London, then Rugby school.
