Family and girlfriend of Ky Parker share funeral arrangements after tragic death of much-loved Sunderland dad
The 37-year-old was reported missing in the city in the early hours of Sunday, May 23, after he was last seen leaving an address in Bede Street in Roker at 1am.
A search was immediately launched and police established his likely route on the morning in question, with a man matching his description spotted walking along the riverside path past the National Glass Centre towards Wearmouth Bridge.
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Hide AdEnquiries to trace Ky had focused around that location but Monday, June 7, a body was tragically discovered in the River Wear.
Police said they did not believe there to be any third party involvement in the death.
On Tuesday June 15, Sunderland’s senior coroner Derek Winter opened an inquest into Ky’s death at a short hearing at Sunderland Civic Centre.
Mr Winter confirmed further inquiries were required and adjourned the hearing until the provisional date of Wednesday, July 21.
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Hide AdThe funeral service will be held on Wednesday, June 23 at 10.30am at Tynemouth Crematorium.
Ky’s family and friends said they appreciate that many people will want to pay their respects but only a small amount of people will be allowed inside due to coronavirus restrictions.
However, there will be a large outside area where well-wishers are welcome to pay their respects and can listen to the service via speakers.
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Hide AdHis mam Julie Parker from Wallsend, where Ky is originally from said: “We all think the world of him and everyone is still in shock but we’re pleased we’ve finally got him back.
"There’s a massive hole left in our family but we all loved him and he loved us – He was a very popular person and will be terribly missed by so many.”
Ky’s family have said everyone is welcome to attend the service outside and to join them at the Sportsman pub on Cawthorne Terrace near to the Crematorium after the service.