Burrage founded Hinckley-based Trident in 1988. He had worked in the printing industry for more than 35 years, and his career included roles at Colorgraphic, Centurion and Taylor Bloxham.

Family-run Trident started off as a print management business but evolved its offering and now provides a range of marketing services.

He died on 15 March, aged 57.

Burrage’s son Adam, who is sales director at the firm, said: “He had so much passion and drive to give people the best experience possible when they placed work with the business. He took a step back from the day-to-day running of the company at the end of 2013, but even when he was in hospital he wanted to know how things were going back at the office.

“Chris had been suffering with a number of health problems, particularly in the last 18 months, but his energy and positivity never slowed and he always put on a brave face in spite of what he may have felt inside,” he added.

Former colleague and ex-Graphoprint sales director Roger Carter, now retired, said: “He’ll be greatly missed. I worked with Chris and knew him as a friend, customer and golf partner. A lot of people in the industry will be sad to hear this news.”

Burrage’s passions outside of print included Formula 1 and MotoGP motor racing, and he was a fan of local football team Leicester City.

He is survived by his wife Kim, who is joint managing director at Trident, and his children Adam, Louise, Hayden and Damon.

The funeral will take place at noon on Monday 31 March at Nuneaton Crematorium and industry friends and colleagues are welcome to attend.

The Burrage family has set up a fund to make donations to the charities and places that helped Chris during his illness. Donations can be made via funeral directors Seller & Co in Hinckley.