The family of a 'generous' Scots grandfather whose body was tragically found after he was reported missing have told how his death has left a "massive hole" in their lives.
Tom Stephens had been reported missing from Breakish on the Isle of Skye when nobody heard from him after 5pm on Saturday May 21.
Unfortunately, the body of the 72-year-old was recovered just two days later.
His children - Corrine, Seren and Liam - have now paid tribute to their "wise but unconventional" dad.
Corrine told the Record: "As a dad, he was always there to help his children as much as he could.
"He was the one I went to for practical problems like a blocked sink or a broken front door.
"But I also went to him for advice on personal problems so he could cheer me up with his stupid, slightly inappropriate humour.
"He was loving, kind, generous and wise but unconventional. He always taught us to think outside the box.
"It always embarrassed us when friends came round but it wasn't till I was older, I realised how much people appreciated his unconventionality.
"It just seems unbelievable we won't be having a coffee and a chat again and listening to him make an inappropriate joke.
"I really don't know how we're going to carry on without Dad. It's left an absolutely massive hole in all of our lives."
Liam added: "His humour and commitment to a joke was legendary... It wasn't surprising to see him dressed up as a gorilla, wearing an old rug and a balaclava and holding a cuppa on the side of the road.
"But it's probably his generosity that stands out most. He refused to turn anyone away and gave everyone the benefit of the doubt."
Although they say their dad didn't often feel valued, news of his passing led to an outpouring of people paying their respects on social media.
One person wrote: "An absolute gentleman taken too soon. RIP Tom."
Another said: "Rest easy now Tom, you were a lovely man and it was an honour to know you."
Having been known to rant a lot, according to his daughters, a third person commented: "Rant in peace Tom. You will be sorely missed by many. Your status as a local legend is secure for all time."
Another added: "They don't make them like this anymore. Tom was a man mountain to my generation and others, we all looked up to him."
The family also praised emergency services and the local community on the Isle, saying: "Thank you so much to the police, coastguard, mountain rescue and fire brigade.
"Thank you as well to the whole community who arose to search for this old man when he went missing.
"When a loved one is missing, it means a lot to be taken seriously and be surrounded by countless people doing their bit to help.
"It’s what he would have done, but would have had no expectation of having others do for him. So thank you, thank you, thank you."
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