Alex Osborn's father pays tribute to his 'precious boy' at funeral
TRIBUTES were paid to a "unique and likeable" 13-year-old who collapsed and died at a youth club.
Mourners gathered at St Lawrence's Church in Biddulph yesterday to bid an emotional farewell to Alex Osborn.
Memories and stories of the teenager were shared as family and friends laughed and cried as they recalled his short life.
Alex, of Bollin Grove, Biddulph, below, went into cardiac arrest at the Fusion Youth Club, Knypersley, on Friday, May 18 – just three days before his 14th birthday.
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Reverend Mark Cannam, who led the service, said: "He had a unique likeable character and he threw himself into whatever he engaged with.
"I met him briefly a couple of times when he was at the 10/10 Youth Club here. I have learnt a lot more since meeting his family.
"He was someone who was very affectionate towards his family and would show his closeness to them.
"He was quite quiet and he had a small circle of very good friends but was known by a lot of people who came into contact with him."
Alex, who was a long-standing member of Dennis Salt's Tae Kwon Do group in Biddulph and Chell, was a pupil at St Lawrence Pre-school, Oxhey First School, Woodhouse Middle School and Biddulph High School.
Mourners were told of his dry sense of humour, enthusiasm for life, and smile.
Reverend Cannam added: "He would often think very deeply about things and would often spend nights having a philosophical discussion with his father, David.
"He wasn't sporty but always threw himself into games.
"He was adventurous and willing to try new things and just have a go.
"There have been a lot of Facebook comments where people have expressed their shock at what has happened.
"Many have made frequent reference to his cheeky little smile and I understand he would make people laugh with his random comments."
The service – which included the hymns O Christ You Wept When Grief Was Raw, All Things Bright And Beautiful and Great Is Your Faithfulness -– also saw Alex's father David pay a moving tribute.
The 36-year-old software engineer said: "Alex was a quiet and unassuming boy and his enthusiasm for life was infectious.
"His individuality and spirit was so precious and you never realise just how precious they are until they've gone.
"Alex, you were a special part of the family and your smile would always brighten my day and I loved your little made up jokes that never made any sense.
"I hope you know how much you were loved."
Alex's coffin was led from the service to one of his favourite songs, One Direction's What Makes You Beautiful.
Donations in his memory will go to the Donna Louise Children's Hospice.
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