The heartbroken parents of Keano Byrne, who was found dead in a body of water in Reddish Vale Country Park earlier this month have now paid an emotional tribute to their 'cheeky' and 'adored' son.
Keano, 26, from Gorton had been reported missing on Monday, March 27, when Greater Manchester Police launched an immediate investigation. His body was later discovered in the woodland, near the River Tame on April 7.
In moving tributes issued by his mum, dad, sisters and the 'love of his life' daughter, aged three, the family have said they will remember him for 'bringing joy' into their lives and for his 'good heart'.
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Keano’s mother said: “To the apple of my eye, my son Keano. You kept me going and I will no longer have that spark between us anymore now you are gone. You were everything to me, you are my baby boy and always will be.
"All I ever wanted from you; you gave to me. I will cherish your memory and make sure your little girl is happy and safe. I will never forget you and I will love you forever, keep lighting up with the smile of yours. Sleep tight son, love always, Mum.”
His dad added: "Keano will always be remembered as a happy-go-lucky kind lad, he was always cheeky growing up with a good heart. He was adored by all his family including his two sisters, brother, and his mum but most of all by his three-year-old daughter who was the love of his life.
“Since she was born, he always had a spring in his step and he was determined to make her life the best it could be, all his love was spent on her. He adored her and although his time was short with her, his family and loved ones knew how much she meant to Keano and how much he meant to her.
"He was robbed of life, and he will never see his daughter grow up. We all miss him so much and we will always remember Keano for all joy he brought to our lives. Our Keano has been taken from us far too soon and we are now left with a huge hole in all our hearts that will not be filled. I have no doubt Keano’s legacy with go on forever, we all miss you so much Keano.”
Keano's body was found at 12.10pm on April 7 and a section of woodland at the bottom of Reddish Vale Country Park near the River Tame was taped off throughout the day. Specialist search teams, divers and Tactical Aid Unit officers attended the scene along with forensics.
Following his death, Keano’s sisters issued a joint statement, which said: “One minute you’re there, and now your gone. Words could never describe the part that has gone from our hearts. We were and always will be proud of the person you became; you fought every obstacle and every distraction that came your way.
"You were the happiest person and no matter what, you always had that smile on your face. We love you and will never ever forget you, see you again someday, our little brother.”
Greater Manchester Police also shared some words from his three-year-old daughter, who said: “My eyes are green apples like my mummy, but my daddy has brown apples. My daddy is helping the angels, he loves me, and I love him.”
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