A renowned engineer who received one of America's highest scientific honours has died. 

Professor Geoffrey Boothroyd, who died last month aged 91, was born in Radcliffe and attended the former Stand Grammar School.

He then started his engineering career as an apprentice at Mather and Platt in Manchester.

As a child, he was evacuated at a time when the area was being bombed by the Germans during the Second World War and lost his father at a young age.

He went on to study for a degree in mechanical engineering at the former Royal Technical College in Salford, graduating in 1956.

Geoffrey later became a lecturer at the college where his research interests in manufacturing processes and metal cutting led him to obtain a PhD in 1962.

He has written numerous books and papers on the subject of design for manufacturing and assembly (DFMA) for which he subsequently was awarded a Doctor of Science (DSc).

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In 1967, Geoffrey moved with his wife Shirley and daughters Janet and Lynda to America.

He continued his journey in academia at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and later at the University of Rhode Island. He lived in Wakefield in Rhode Island for 28 years. 

Bury Times: Geoffrey Boothroyd, left with former President George Bush, and DFMA colleague, Dr Peter DewhurstGeoffrey Boothroyd, left with former President George Bush, and DFMA colleague, Dr Peter Dewhurst (Image: Newsquest)

In addition to academia, Geoffrey co-founded and served as the president of Boothroyd Dewhurst, Inc (BDI).

His work here was instrumental in the development of DFMA and it becoming more popular. This methodology helped achieve dramatic cost savings across a wide spectrum of global industries.

His contributions to the field were recognized nationally in America when he was awarded the National Medal of Science by President George H.W. Bush in 1991, honouring his significant impact on manufacturing and engineering.

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He leaves behind his brother, Arthur, of San Diego, California and two daughters, Lynda Boothroyd of Sarasota, Florida and Janet Gilligan of Wakefield, Rhode Island.

He also leaves behind grandchildren, Keith Gilligan and Katie Fairbrother, and great-grandson, Kai Thomas Fairbrother.

Known for his kindness, wisdom, and generosity, he was a mentor and inspiration to many of his students.

Geoffrey was a highly devoted family man, cherishing his role as a husband and father, balancing his professional achievements with a rich and rewarding personal life.

His hobbies included model railway construction, tennis, golf, classical music appreciation, and watercolour painting.