A father died exactly one month after his missing son was found dead in woodland.
Harry McKenzie, 50, was rocked by his son Dean's unexpected death and fell ill weeks later before being placed in an induced coma at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Newcastle.
Dean, 27, was found dead in woodland in County Durham on June 5 after being reported missing.
A close family friend, Lee O'Neil, paid tribute to Harry – saying the father was left in "disbelief" that his son had died.
Lee, 37, said: "We prayed he would pull through. We were all hoping he could fight this battle.
"It still has not really hit home, the fact his ray of sunshine is not going to be around.
"It's going to change everyone's lives, that's how much of an impact he had."
Harry was born and raised in Felling and attended St John's Primary School before moving up to St Aidan's secondary school, reports Chronicle Live.
He worked in business with his brother Paul in breakdown recovery, and became a father to Dean and daughter Shannon, 22.
Warehouse operative Lee said Harry was a "popular" member of the Felling community.
He said: "Harry was a lovable and happy person who loved life.
"He liked having a drink with friends and being sociable. He was a bit of a joker, he loved a carry on.
"Harry was a great family friend of ours."
The passing of Dean after a missing person appeal left the whole family in "shock".
Lee added: "It was just disbelief that his son had passed away.
"I've got a son myself and I know it would be my worst nightmare."
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