UPDATE FEBRUARY 2:
More than three hundred people farewelled well-known Caringbah man David Crawford during a service at Woronora Crematorium on Saturday.
Known affectionately as Crawfo, he died on January 21 after his motorcycle hit a tree on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive in the Royal National Park.
He is survived by his partner, Amanda, and four children.
Wollongong Mayor and former Minister of the Church on the Mall in Wollongong Gordon Bradbery conducted the service.
Close friend and fellow boardrider, Leader chief photographer John Veage, said there were more smiles than tears.
‘‘It was a fitting send off,’’ he said.
JANUARY 29:
DAVID Crawford, 55, of Caringbah, will be farewelled during a funeral service on Saturday January 31.
Known affectionately as Crawfo, he died on January 21 after his motorcycle hit a tree on Sir Bertram Stevens Drive in the Royal National Park.
He is survived by his partner, Amanda, and four children.
Mr Crawford was born and raised in Sutherland Shire and ran Cronulla Roofing. He was also an avid surfer and long-term member of the Cronulla Sharks Boardriders Club.
Close friend and fellow boardrider, Leader chief photographer John Veage, will deliver the eulogy and said he was still in shock over the accident.
"One day he's there and the next he's not," he said. "He acted tough but he had a soft and generous side.
"He'd do anything for anyone.
"Even when the North Cronulla Nippers room burnt down, he offered to fix it for free.
"He loved a surf, a beer and a punt."
Mr Veage said the family was still coming to terms with the loss.
"They just expect him to walk through the door at any time," he said.
"They're overwhelmed with all the support from the community — hundreds of people have got in touch."
A funeral will be held from 10am Saturday at Woronora Crematorium, followed by a private ceremony.
Leave a tribute to Mr Crawford via the comment link below.
