A FAMILY has paid an emotional tribute to a devoted father-of-four who passed away at the age of 45 after a courageous fight with a brain tumour.

Ste Norcross, from Parr, battled the cancer glioblastoma multiforme for two years but remained upbeat as he doted on the four daughters and five grandchildren that he loved so much.

He had shown the kindness that was part of his nature by raising money and supporting children with cancer while he underwent treatment at Clatterbridge.

A keen biker, who would travel to the Isle of Man for the TT, he was given a fitting send off as a convoy of motorcyclists gathered at his funeral, which took place at St Thomas’ Church, St Helens and later at the crematorium.

Ste, who worked as a binman for St Helens Council and a steward for Everton football club, was taken on his final journey by a trike hearse that carried his coffin.

St Helens Star:

Ste's coffin on the trike hearse

Speaking to the Star, eldest daughter Natasha, 26, said: “He was an amazing dad, granddad and husband to our mum Bernadette.

“Even while he was having treatment, he was doing everything for the kids and family.

“When he came home to be cared for he was still trying to be independent – right until the last. He was a very strong, loving and caring man.

“He was the best dad anyone could ask for and worked hard all his life to provide us with Christmas presents, birthday gifts and holidays.

“When the grandkids were born he was straight out there buying them Everton shirts and Saints shirts.”

St Helens Star:

With wife Bernadette and their four daughters when the couple renewed their vows

Reflecting on his thoughtfulness, Natasha told stories of how her dad would find broken bikes and repair them before giving them to children.

She said those kind of deeds summed up his nature.

Describing the funeral, she added: “His coffin was in the trike and there were lots of bikers there following him.

“The funeral directors Holland and Bate did an amazing job, the service was just so lovely – it was perfect.”

St Helens Star:

Ste was a keen fundraiser for childhood cancer charities

Ste, who lived on Chiltern Road, was well-known across the Parr community and his death led to a wave of sadness and tributes.

Natasha, speaking on behalf of sisters Gemma, 24, Leah, 20, and Kara, 19, added: “There have been some lovely tributes, people just can’t believe that he has gone. He had a lovely bunch of friends and they have helped my mum and have been really supportive.”