The tragic death of 81-year-old Chok Ming Chan who was found on a Port Macquarie street last week with significant head injuries has shocked our community.
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There has been an outpouring of emotion on social media about the gently spoken and always kind gentleman who did not ever hesitate to offer a hello.
He was a humble man who quietly went about his day and was often seen strolling about town with his fishing rod in hand.
He was a familiar face, even for those who did not know him personally.
Mr Chan was most well-known among our local fishos. Always stopping for a chat and genuinely interested in the catch of the day.
Ambulance paramedics were called to William Street late into the evening on Tuesday, October 4. They found Mr Chan laying in the street with serious head injuries. He was taken to hospital but had sadly passed away.
Fishing mate Lloyd Eyles in an emotional tribute to his mate ‘Billy’ said they had lost a family member.
The language barrier proved no obstacle for Billy and fishos dotted along the breakwall he walked daily.
Billy was just one of those good humans, who through kindness, could connect with a smile or a kind gesture. He would happily accept a yabby or two and even bag a puffer fish if it was on offer – his favourite, and a reminder of family and home.
Billy did not have an ounce of anger in his bones, as Lloyd summed up.
He was an elderly man who accepted strangers as family and who extended love through kindness. He will be sadly missed.
He touched the lives of many because of this and as a tribute to his goodness, calls have been made to name the Westport fishing tables in his memory.
The circumstances surrounding his death still remain a mystery. And the police are calling for the public’s help to resolve the death of this gentle soul.
Strike Force Merle has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
Initial appeals to the public for information on the incident resulted in a number of witnesses coming forward; however police believe there may be more people who have information and have not yet spoken to police. Anyone who may have information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.