A family has paid an emotional tribute following the tragic passing of their loving “pops” .
Gary Fox, 60, has been described as a Normanby “local legend” by his family following his passing on December 19. The Teessider ran a property maintenance company and was a popular businessman known for his “warmth and generosity”. He was a much-loved husband of Emma, 50, loving dad of Lauren, 30, dear father-in-law to be of Matty, and treasured pops to his one-year-old grandson Freddie.
Mr Fox was born and bred in Normanby and was a mechanic by trade when he met his wife Emma. They ran into each other over 25 years ago at The Claggy Mat in Yarm and she described him as her “soul mate”, she said: “He was a local legend in Normanby everyone knew him, we could never go anywhere without someone stopping us. I just used to wave at random people because he was so popular.
“We met 25 years ago when he beckoned me across the dancefloor and I gave him my number. The rest is history. I met Lauren when she was five and I’ve been in her life since. She is getting married so it’s been really hard for her.
“He was my soul mate. He was going to be my forever and we had just so many plans. We were going to go travelling around Swtizerland – he was the gin to my tonic.”
Mrs Fox said her husband was passionate about DIY and he even renovated two of their houses. Around 12/13 years ago he made the leap to turn his passion into a career and went self-employed running his own property maintenance company.
‘We were two parts of the same person’
She said: “His work ethic was amazing. He did a job as if he was doing it for himself. He used to cook as it was his downtime, that’s how he relaxed. We did everything together, we were two parts of the same person.”
Mrs Fox said the pair were meant to be going skiing this month, something Mr Fox loved, she said: “We went every year. He was a natural and used to go with the lads. We were meant to be going to the Italian dolomites. I just can’t believe it, it’s so surreal he’s gone. Everyone is so devastated.”
Gary Fox with his wife Emma
‘His warmth and generosity touched all who had the privilege of knowing him’
Mrs Fox said a card of condolence, received by the family sums up her husband, it reads: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Gary Fox. He was not only a remarkable craftsman but also a person of great integrity and kindness. Gary’s dedication to his craft and his attention to detail were truly inspirational and his work will stand as a lasting testament to his skill and passion. Gary was more than a master of his trade, he was a cherished friend and colleague.
“His warmth and generosity of spirit touched all who had the privilege of knowing him. His contributions to the community and the lives he impacted will never be forgotten.
“During this difficult time please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May you find comfort in the many wonderful memories you shared with Gary and the legacy of excellence he leaves behind.”
Gary Fox with his daughter Lauren and grandson Freddy
A family has paid tribute to their treasured ‘Pops’ Gary Fox
Gary Fox with his wife Emma
Mr Fox’s funeral will take place on Friday, January 10, in Kirkleatham Crematorium, at 10am. Friends and family are being asked to wear a splash of colour.
His funeral notice reads: “Peacefully in hospital on December 19, following a tragic accident on Sunday, December 15. Gary aged 60 years. Much loved husband of Emma, loving dad of Lauren, dear father-in-law to be of Matty, treasured Pops of Freddie. Also a dear son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle.
“Funeral service to take place on Friday, January 10, in Kirkleatham Crematorium, at 10am prior to cremation. Family and friends please meet at the crematorium and afterwards at Eston and Normanby Social Club. To celebrate the life of Gary please wear a splash of colour. No flowers by request please. Donations in lieu if so desired to Great North Air Ambulance. All enquiries to Fawcett & Hetherington Funeral Service King George House, 92 High Street, Eston, TS6 9EG Tel: 01642459555.”
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