Memorial service held for Mullumbimby, northern NSW man Gage Wilson

The family of missing northern NSW man Gage Wilson – tragically found dead in bushland after a three month search – have put the 31-year-old to rest and honoured his “loving legacy”.

Gage Wilson. Picture: Facebook

The family of missing northern NSW man Gage Wilson – tragically found dead in bushland after a three month search – have put the 31-year-old to rest and honoured his “loving legacy”.

Mr Wilson was last seen alive on Hakea Court in Mullumbimby on May 18.

Shortly after, his car was found abandoned and smashed into a tree on Koonyum Range Rd, Wilsons Creek.

On August 4, months after his disappearance, police found skeletal remains just one kilometre from the crash site. Later that month after forensic testing, they were confirmed to be Mr Wilson’s.

At the time, Mr Wilson’s shattered family spoke of their pain on social media, saying their worst “nightmares” had come true.

Gage Wilson with his sister Niki Manidakis and their grandmother Marie. Picture: Supplied by Elizabeth Kovacs

Police have still not ruled out foul play and investigations continue.

Last Friday, family and friends of Mr Wilson farewelled the young man in a local funeral service, with a Facebook post saying the ceremony was filled with a “beautiful and joyful energy”.

His mother Ida wrote: “Thank you everyone for the beautiful joyful loving energy that you all came with in celebration of the life of our Gage yesterday.”

“Thank you for travelling distances to be there together, and your beautiful contributions. The depth of connection and kind regard among you all is beautiful,” she said.

“I reckon that Gage loved the party.”

Friend Leela Angel added: “I was deeply honoured to be a part of the celebrations and to witness the love and support from all of Gage’s friends and family. Meeting you, Ida and Clive, was truly a privilege. Thank you to everyone who created such a beautiful space to commemorate Gage – an outstanding young man.”

Gage Wilson search area at Wilsons Creek. Picture: NewsWire / Natalie Grono

Mr Wilson’s sister Niki Manidakis wrote: “Today, we remember Gage – a fantastic uncle who showered his nieces with love and laughter. His dedication to being the best uncle was unmatched, and his nieces will cherish those memories forever.

“However, one thing Gage never hesitated to mention was his very firm stance on not ever wanting kids of his own – and that was perfectly okay with him!

“He found fulfilment in being the best uncle he could be, and his nieces are grateful for every moment spent with him.

“Gage’s unique perspective on family will be dearly missed, but his legacy as a loving uncle will always be treasured. Rest in peace, Gage.”

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