Tributes to 'devoted' dad and 'selfless' man killed in van crash

Families have paid tribute to two men who died after a van crashed off a country lane in Cheshire.

Jason Clark, 53, a father of four from Runcorn, and Marlon Kent, 52, from Holmes Chapel, died after the incident in Goostrey on 3 November, Cheshire Police said.

Clark was described by his family as a "fun-loving and devoted dad" who supported his community, while Kent was remembered as a devoted son who "went out of his way to help others".

Two other men, aged 48 and 49, were taken to hospital with serious injuries following the collision.

Clark's family said the "much-loved son, dad, partner, and friend" would be "deeply missed".

"He leaves behind his loving parents, his two adult children, his two young children, and his devoted partner of 12 years, all of whom will forever cherish the love, laughter, and memories they shared with him," they said.

A bespoke kitchen fitter, Clark "generously gave his time to causes close to his heart", including volunteering at his children's school and helping with projects along the canal, finding "great joy in supporting his community".

His family said he was known for his "infectious sense of humour, kind heart, and lovable personality" and was "someone people could always turn to for support, advice, or simply a laugh when they needed one most".

"He was a rock to his family, a loyal friend, and a familiar face whose presence brought comfort and happiness to so many," they said.

"His passing leaves an enormous void in the lives of all who knew and loved him, but the laughter, love, and memories he leaves behind will live on forever.

"Gone far too soon, but never forgotten. Forever loved and dearly missed by all who knew him."

Kent's family said he was "the much-loved son of Christine and David, and cherished brother of Belinda, Brendan, Damian and Kieran".

They said family meant everything to him and he was "a devoted son to his mum and dad and was always on hand to help them in any way he could", never needing to be asked and never seeing it as a duty.

"Looking after his parents was something he did out of love, and they were at the heart of everything he did," they said.

"To his brothers and sister, Marlon was a constant. He was loyal, dependable and always there when he was needed."

His family said his love also extended to his two boxer dogs, Harry and Freddie, who "gave him great happiness" and were never far from his side.

They said that, since his death, they had received many messages from people in the community recalling times he had gone out of his way to help others, often quietly and without seeking recognition.

"One phrase has come up again and again: Marlon had a heart of gold and that sentiment couldn't be more true," they added.

"His kindness, generosity and selflessness touched more lives than his family could ever have known."

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