Tributes have flooded in for a "hero" dad who was killed after being hit by a car on the M62.
Ste Rowley died after he was hit by a Mercedes on the M62 between junction eight and nine in Warrington on Sunday, March 19. The 51-year-old maintenance officer for Warrington Primary Academy Trust, leaves behind his wife Maz and their eight children Jessy May, Stephen, Jamie, Demi Lea, Spencer, Tristan, Oscar, and his "princess" Lola Rae.
His family have expressed their "shock" at how many people have reached out since his death, with hundreds of people paying their respects. A GoFundMe page has also been set up by Bank Quay Bulls Amateur Rugby League Club, who said Ste was a "well loved man" and parent of an U12s player.
READ MORE: Double tragedy for family after son killed in crash
More than £2,000 has already been raised to support the family and for a funeral. In an update, the fundraising organiser, Mark Roberts said he spoke to the Rowley family who said: "As a family, we are all touched by the number of offers of support and condolences we receive each day. We continue to be shocked by how many people knew him."
He added: "His son Spencer shared something with me today. He said: 'I didn't realise how many people dad knew, why is there so many people, to me he was just dad, my dad'
"Well, that says it all. It shows how someone like Ste can help and love so many people, but simply switch off, go home, and simply be, JUST DAD. He is a hero, a legend, and a great friend, but most of all, he's DAD. We love you Ste."
Leaving a tribute and donation, Catherine Oneill said: "Ste was a lovely man and always made me laugh when he came into Kingsway Primary, he was a lovely man and will be missed."
A parent also donated on behalf of their son said: "To the wonderful man who brightened Lew’s day coming and going to school for the short time you worked there. Lewis still does the skip hop you did when he playfully pushed you. You always put a smile on our face. Our thoughts are with your precious family and friends. This is from your little mate Lew."
Tributes have also appeared on social media, Alexandra Zaria commented on the ECHO Facebook page: "Myself and one of my best friends used to sit with Ste as he worked in the security cabin for Barratt on Chapelford.
"We used to sit there for hours winding him up, getting life advice from him and telling him we were gonna sneak out that night and if he sees anyone that it’s just us lol. We must have been about 13.
"Ste had a heart of gold, he had such a good energy. This is so heart-breaking - rest in paradise Ste." Tim Howlin added: "A top guy. Very caring. A good soul. R.i.p buddy. My heart goes out to his family."
A third, Claire Mitchell said: "Omg. He's from my kids' schools. Such a lovely bloke. What a sad sad loss! Rip fella."
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