The Rockingham community is reeling after the death of family man Chris Clark in a motorcycle accident on June 8.
The 37-year-old died instantly when he rode into a fence while riding his dirt bike at a friend’s property.
The Safety Bay businessman leaves behind his wife Ally and two children.
Through his business, Clarky’s Ceilings, Mr Clark had a hand in building many properties throughout the Rockingham and metropolitan area.
Mr Clark’s devastated wife Ally, who he met 18 years ago, said she had been “overwhelmed” by the community’s support.
“He loved Rockingham and called it “God’s country” and always said why would you want to leave it,” she told the Sound Telegraph.
His best friend since high school, Chris Park, told the Sound Telegraph he would miss motorbike rides with his mate.
“He had a heart of gold and got along with anyone,” Mr Park said.
“Rockingham is missing a genuine, most kind-hearted legend. Everywhere he went he made a mate.
“He was a great father and husband and friend to many. He just bought his dream house and started setting himself up.
“Camping will never be the same.”
On Friday, the Rockingham Sharks posted a tribute on social media to their number #45 and held a minute’s silence for the former rugby league player on Saturday.
“Chris was a tough as teak five eighth who played with his heart on his sleeve,” they wrote.
“In the early days of the Sharks he met Ally, who was a two-times premiership player with the Sharks.
“They hit it off from the word go and were inseparable. Chris retired from the game early but always supported the Sharks when his busy lifestyle and work allowed him to.”
A GoFundMe, created by Gray Briggs, has already received more than 200 donations and reached more than $75,000 just days after it was started.
“Losing Chris Clark in a tragic motorcycle accident has left his wife Ally and two young children reeling from the unexpected loss of their beloved husband and father,” Mr Briggs wrote on the fundraiser.
“In the midst of their grief, we are coming together to ensure that financial worries do not add to their pain.
“We have set up this GoFundMe page to help alleviate the financial strain of funeral costs and ongoing expenses for the Clark family.
“Any donation, no matter the size, will make a difference in helping Ally and her children navigate this difficult time without the added stress of financial burdens.”
Mr Briggs described the late father as “a devoted family man and a cherished friend to many”.
“Let us come together as a community to honour his memory and support his family in their time of need,” he said.
“Your contribution will make a lasting impact on this beautiful family as they navigate this unimaginable loss.”
Heartbreaking tributes from friends and family flooded social media.
“Please help donate to a good friend’s family in such a sad time, the pain of losing a husband, father and friend is hard enough without having to deal with the financial burden. Any little bit helps,” friend Rex Hunt shared to Facebook.
“Love you brother, see you on the other side,” wrote friend Michael Hanssen.
Donations can be made on GoFundMe.