Home   Malling   News   Article

Tributes flood in for Daniel Pude, 20, after he was found dead at his home in London Road, Larkfied

Touching tributes have been paid to a much-loved 20-year-old who died suddenly this week.

Daniel Pude has been described as a humorous and generous man and a caring uncle who was always the life and soul of the party.

He proposed to fiancée, Samantha Blackaby, 22, on Christmas Day and they had moved in to their Larkfield home in January.

Daniel Pude, 20, will be greatly missed by his family and friends
Daniel Pude, 20, will be greatly missed by his family and friends

Miss Blackaby said: “When you said forever you meant it, I just wish it could have been for longer.

"I never knew what it was like to love someone until I met you. I’ll love you forever, rest in peace handsome.”

Police and paramedics were called to the couple’s home in London Road at around 8.30pm on Tuesday.

Daniel Pude and fiancée Samantha Blackaby
Daniel Pude and fiancée Samantha Blackaby

The former Aylesford School Sports College pupil is believed to have died as a result of type one diabetes, which he was diagnosed with at 13.

His mother Su Lowe, of Temple Way, East Malling, has been inundated with messages of support and paid tribute to a kind-hearted and mischievous son.

She said: “Daniel, you have left the biggest hole in my heart baby and I am going to miss you so much.

Daniel Pude and mother Su
Daniel Pude and mother Su

"Although I will always have a full fridge now as there is nobody to pinch all the food anymore!

"I know you said you wouldn’t live to 40 but you could have stayed longer, you had it all planned out with Sam and you were both so happy. I will love you forever.”

Friend Jamie Isherwood said: “I still can’t believe my best friend has gone, words cannot describe how much I am going to miss you, it still doesn’t feel right.

Daniel Pude, far left, and friends
Daniel Pude, far left, and friends

"You were like a brother to me. All the memories we had together, I promise I will never forget them.

"My little Grace will be told what a lovely, kind, generous man you were. I will never forget you Daniel J Pude. Sleep tight and I love you.”

Miss Blackaby's brother, Josh, who found Mr Pude on Tuesday, said: "He meant the world to me, he was part of our family and the older brother I never had.

Daniel Pude with his nieces Caitlin, 4, and one-year-old Ava
Daniel Pude with his nieces Caitlin, 4, and one-year-old Ava

"I would just like to say thank you to him for making my sister the happiest girl in the world. Sleep tight mate, love you."

Mr Pude, a window fitter, was particularly close to his two nieces, Caitlin, four, and one-year-old Ava.

His brother, James, 22, said: “Daniel, I wasn’t aware how many people liked you, but Caitlin loved you the most and she will miss her ‘Uncle Podge’. Watch over her and Ava for me.”


Stories you might have missed

Two hurt after 'stolen' moped crashes into lamppost

School workers guilty of historic sex abuse

'Have a magical life' said boy, 13, before suicide

Young prisoner found dead


Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More