‘Fly high little buddy’: Torquay family shares tribute to 11-year-old lost in asthma attack tragedy

The family of a boy who lost his life after an asthma attack suffered while playing at a Torquay basketball has encouraged people to make one small gesture to help celebrate his life.

Josh Ruff’s family have paid tribute to “the most beautiful soul”.

The heartbroken family of an 11-year-old who died from an asthma attack has remembered him as “the most beautiful soul”, and thanked their community for an unprecedented outpouring of support.

Torquay P-6 College Grade 6 student Josh Ruff passed away last week after developing asthma during an evening basketball game in Torquay, despite desperate efforts to save his life.

Josh’s mum Melissa, dad Aaron and sister Annabelle shared a tribute for their beloved boy on Wednesday.

Josh Ruff with his (L-R) dad Aaron, mum Melissa and sister Annabelle.

“Our beautiful boy – words can’t describe how much we miss you,” the family wrote.

“Our hearts are breaking trying to come to terms with your passing, due to an asthma attack last Wednesday at basketball.”

“You filled our hearts with so much joy and were so kind, caring, funny, loving and just the most beautiful soul.

“We know you are in heaven – hanging out with Jesus and that is what is getting us through and bring us peace. If it helps to bring some comfort to others – Josh has been sharing visions with us since passing, to let us know he is all OK and having fun in heaven.”

The family also shared their thankfulness for an outpouring of support from across the community, including a GoFundMe page raising almost $110,000 to allow the family to take time to grieve.

Josh with his Dad, Aaron.

And with sister, Annabelle.

“We will be eternally grateful to everyone, friends, other parents, and staff that assisted Josh on the night and all they did to try to keep Josh alive,” the family said.

“The Surf Coast Basketball Association, staff Wurdi Baierr Stadium, all the many ambulance and police officers and Coronial staff were all absolutely amazing, so loving and caring to Josh and us.”

“We want to thank all our family, friends and the Torquay community, who have showered us with so much love and support – it has been simply amazing and has carried us through this time.

“We need to be so proud our community, the generosity, the love, the help, care and support is so unique, and we will never forget it.”

Josh loved his sport, especially football and basketball.

Josh’s funeral will be held at Barrabool Auditorium, (4-32 Province Blvd, Highton) from 2pm on March 22, with the family extending an open invitation to celebrate his life.

“We would love any kids that can attend and if they want, to wear their football, basketball or school tops – as Josh loved his sport and school,” they said. “Or if unable to attend please visit tuckers.com.au for web cast details.”

“Once again thankyou from the bottom of our hearts for the abundance of love and support we have felt. We will never forget it.”

“Fly high little buddy.”

Originally published as ‘Fly high little buddy’: Torquay family shares tribute to 11-year-old lost in asthma attack tragedy