The crash victims left to right: Philip Seary, Dane Chinnery, Robert Huxley, Mark Smith, Dorotea Rynkiewicz, Philip Logan, Don Collett. Pic: British Transport Police and family handouts
All seven victims of the Croydon tram derailment have been identified by the British Transport Police, who have issued official tributes from families and friends.
The families of the victims have requested that their privacy be respected. Tributes within the community continue to be paid to the victims.
Don Collett
Don Collett
The family of Donald Collet, 62, from Croydon, said: “Don was a well loved, funny and generous man, who could light up a room with his smile. He leaves behind a loving family, partner, adored friends and work colleagues.”
“We are struggling to deal with this tragic news and ask for privacy at this sad time.”
Nephew Samuel Collett wrote on Facebook that we wanted to remember his uncle with the laughter and love in which he bestowed on his life.
“I personally will never forget his infectious laugh and positive attitude to life . He will be eternally missed,” he continued.
Mark Smith
Mark Smith with his fiancée and son
Mark Smith, 35, a young engaged father from Croydon, was initially named on Friday as the third victim. His fiancée Indre Novikovaite said: “Mark was my lover, my best friend, my everything. He was, and still is, an amazing dad to our little boy.”
His family said: “Our son Mark Smith was a loving, caring, kind, loyal and popular young man known to many. A devoted father and husband-to-be and loving brother to his sister.
Philip Logan
The family of Philip Logan, 52, from New Addington, said: “Phil was a man with more love compassion and zest for life than words can express. He will be immensely missed by all that knew him.”
They described him as a “true family man and generous friend to all with a magnificently dry sense of humour”.
Robert Huxley
Robert Huxley
63-year-old Robert Huxley’s family, also from New Addington, spoke of their late loved one: “Bob was a larger than life character and very hardworking. A loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, brother, uncle and dear friend to many. He was also a lifelong Chelsea supporter and a season ticket holder.”
“This tragedy will have far reaching consequences and impact many people for a significant time. We are all heartbroken,” they said.
Dorota Rynkiewicz
Dorota Rynkiewicz
The husband of Dorota Rynkiewicz, 35, has paid tribute to her. He said: “Words cannot heal the pain of losing someone so dear. Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure, you are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Love you forever, Andrzej and girls.”
Simon Smith, chief executive of her employer SSP UK, told the BBC the catering company was “deeply saddened” by her death.
Dane Chinnery
Dane Chinnery
Tributes were also paid to two Crystal Palace fans named unofficially online last week: Dane Chinnery, 19, from New Addington, and Philip Seary, 57, from Croydon
A friend of former Meridian High School pupil Chinnery wrote on Facebook: “It’s surreal how you could talk about the future with someone, and days later they’re gone. Rest in Peace Dane Chinnery you amazing person,”
On a Go Fund Me page to raise money for his funeral, his brother said: “There are absolutely no words that can describe the true hurt and pain that our whole family is in right now.”
“Dane was the most perfect brother.”
Philip Seary
Philip Seary
Seary was described as ‘kind gentle giant of a man’. Known by some as ‘Tank’, he worked as an engineer at the Royal Opera House for 17 years.
Relatives Graham and Holly Eves wrote on their joint Facebook page: “We lost one of the BEST!! The most kind, giving person we’ll ever have in our lives!! Rest in Paradise our friend & brother.. luv u to the Stars!!”
Flowers and handwritten notes expressing love and condolences continue to be laid at the scene of the crash.
