A FAMILY has paid tribute to a loving father who suddenly passed away aged 43.

David Bobby, of Colchester, was taken ill late last month and was rushed to hospital.

Doctors and nurses worked tirelessly but were unable to diagnose what was wrong with the father-of-two.

Mr Bobby sadly passed away less than 24 hours later. His death was due to a dissected aorta.

Sister Liz Bird, 48, of Colchester, said: “He was a man who lived life to the full and whatever he did he dedicated himself to it.

“His death was such a shock.

“The doctors and nurses worked so hard, they were trying to identify what the problem was.

“No one could have known it was going to happen.”

Mr Bobby was born and grew up in Colchester.

He went to Prettygate Infant and Junior School before going to Colchester Royal Grammar School.

He left the school, being awarded the school colours for music and as county champion in the triple jump.

Mr Bobby grew up as a member of Plume Avenue United Reformed Church and was very active with the Boys Brigade.

He later was a member of St Teresa’s Church where the family worshipped together.

He graduated from Kingston University with a music degree before working with various music companies to continue his passion, ending with Faber Music as business development director.

A keen musician, he played the piano, viola and accordion amongst others and enjoyed singing.

As well as being chairman of Colne Valley Youth and Training Orchestras, he had also previously been chairman of the PTA at Heathlands Primary School in West Bergholt.

Mrs Bird said: “He touched so many people’s hearts because he was a loving and caring individual."

Mr Bobby leaves behind a wife and two children, aged 12 and 16, his mother, father and sisters.

His funeral will take place at 12noon on Friday, July 12, at St Teresa of Lisieux, in Clairmont Road, Colchester.