Tribute to a gentle soul

The sister of Lee Buzzard, who died on a Pilbara mine site last month, has described her brother as a gentle soul made in the mould of his father, in a touching tribute following his funeral.

Mr Buzzard, a Rio Tinto diesel fitter, was killed in the early hours of June 19 while working at the Channar mine near Paraburdoo.

Brooke Buzzard said she had read some heartfelt messages in the weeks following his death and now wanted to share her memories of a big brother who had been a fine role model for his siblings.

“As Lee’s sister I was able to identify qualities in Lee that were clearly a reflection of my father’s — kind and gentle in nature, goal-orientated, focused, honest, and genuine,” she said.

“I have witnessed first-hand that our dad was an extremely positive influence in Lee’s life, and in many ways it is Dad’s personality that has sculptured Lee’s personality and looks and helped Lee to become the terrific young man he was.

“As a young adult, Lee told our dad that his fondest childhood memories were playing board games with him and his stepmother, Sandie Buzzard, on the school holidays.”

Ms Buzzard said her brother’s funeral on July 1 had been the most challenging day the family had faced.

“As Lee’s siblings we all agree that while an unfortunate tragedy has robbed us of the opportunity to spend valuable time with our big brother, it may not steal our treasured memories of him,” she said. “Those we will keep locked away in our hearts forever.

“Lee did not have a bad bone in his body, and it is for that reason that our memories of him will be cherished for an eternity.”

Following Mr Buzzard’s death, Rio Tinto launched an investigation into the incident.

The death sent shockwaves through nearby Paraburdoo, where the local Men’s Shed opened its doors for people to come down and grieve.

A Rio Tinto spokesman said they were not in a position to comment as the investigation was ongoing.