DENIS Lynn was last night described as a "man of great vision and energy", as tributes continued to pour in for the businessman following his tragic death.
The Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) said he was an "exceptional entrepreneur" and praised Mr Lynn's work in the "championing of his local community".
The 63-year-old was the founder and chairman of Finnebrogue Artisan, a large food production firm based outside Downpatrick.
He died in a quad bike accident at Crossgar Road in Killyleagh on Sunday.
His death was announced in a company statement, which described him as "our founder, leader and inspiration".
Funeral details had last night not been published.
His firm employs around 1,000 people across four sites in Co Down and supplies several major UK supermarkets. Mr Lynn had grown the business's turnover to £150 million, producing premium sausages, bacon, ham, venison, and wagyu beef burgers
Nick Whelan, chair of the NIFDA, last night said Mr Lynn was "an exceptional entrepreneur, a true innovator and a man of great vision and energy".
"A strong and very active supporter of NIFDA, Denis was committed to realising the potential of the food and drink industry in Northern Ireland," he said.
"Denis had a real passion for the planet and was at the forefront in demonstrating how food and drink companies can lead the way in enhancing environmental sustainability.
"Indeed, his commitment to making the world a better place extended beyond his considerable achievements in business. His charity work, championing of his local community and personal kindness provide inspiration to us all.
"Denis will be sorely missed by his colleagues at Finnebrogue and right across the food industry and wider business community in Northern Ireland.
"His contribution to Northern Ireland was immense, and his legacy will leave a significant and lasting imprint for years to come."
Mr Lynn is survived by his wife Christine, children Kerry, Clare, Tara and Ciara and wider family circle.
