A 'brilliant' neurosurgeon found dead in a Scots loch has been hailed by patients and colleagues he selflessly helped as a loss for the world.
Michael Fitzpatrick disappeared from his house in Cumbernauld at around 5pm on Sunday, November 13. A frantic search was launched for the 58-year-old, who was a consultant neurosurgeon in Edinburgh, but his body was found in Banton Loch, Kilsyth, at around 3.35pm on Saturday, November 19.
Devastated patients told how Michael helped rid them of 'crippling' pain, while ex-colleagues said they 'loved every second' of working with him. Michael's former secretary Ann Docherty posted a heartfelt message on Facebook.
"I'm devastated," she said. "My thoughts are with Mike’s wife and their daughters. This is a heartbreaking, horrific outcome for you all.
"Mike, no one I worked with for 10 years ever made me laugh as much as you always did. I will always miss you and your sense of humour. I absolutely loved every second of the 10 years I was your secretary. RIP."
Julie Johnstone said: "I worked with Mike in Southern General Hospital in Glasgow many years ago. He was great fun to work with - but not only was he a colleague, he helped me with my dad.
"I shared my concerns with Mike about my dad. He organised his scan and went over it with me. Sadly dad had an inoperable brain tumour and died four months later but I will never forget Mike’s help and immediate attention to my situation. I am so sorry and sad to hear this news. He will be so missed. My heartfelt sympathy to Mike’s family and friends. RIP ....you were gifted."
Meanwhile Tony Murphy, who was Celtic fan Michael's next door neighbour for over 16 years, added: “We never ever had a cross word between us and we chatted for hours on end about his beloved Glasgow Celtic. He was a wonderful neighbour and even better friend. Still can’t believe this has happened. RIP.”
Shona McCreadie said: “He operated on my husband’s back and freed him from crippling pain. RIP.”
Liz Gallagher Farrell added: “So upsetting. He did three spinal surgeries on me. RIP Michael.”
Chris Maxwell said: "Oh my goodness a brilliant surgeon. What a loss to the world."
Police had launched a frantic appeal for information after Michael vanished from his home but they confirmed his family had been informed of his death on Saturday. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "The body of a man was found in Banton Loch, Kilsyth, around 3.35pm on Saturday, November 19.
"The body has been identified as 58-year-old Michael Fitzpatrick, who had been reported missing from Cumbernauld. His family have been informed.
"The death is not believed to be suspicious. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal."
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