Trafalgar cabinet marker Lachlan Ward remembered as loving partner and dad

A West Gippsland cabinet maker who died this week was a “true Aussie bloke”, a loving partner and dad, and a great mate, his friends say.

Trafalgar cabinet maker Lachlan Ward, 24, with fiance Georgia and children Rhys and Paige.

A West Gippsland father has been remembered as a loving and warm presence in the lives of his family and friends.

Cabinet maker and keen fisherman Lachlan Ward, 24, died in a car crash in Warragul South on Monday morning while heading to work.

He is survived by his fiance Georgia and two children Rhys, 3, and Paige, 9 months.

Lachlan Ward. Picture: GoFundMe

Family and friends described Mr Ward as having “a heart as big as his presence”.

“He was so inviting to everyone,” family friend Rachael Tuffen said.

“He took life by the balls, basically.”

Mr Ward was particularly close with his son Rhys, Ms Tuffen said, with the pair frequently sharing outdoor experiences such as fishing and being out in the bush.

“He was a true Aussie bloke, inseparable from his family, especially Rhys,” she said.

“With Georgia being involved in his life, they were just this beautiful little family, and Paige had just come along.

“He was able to enjoy Rhy’s 3rd birthday recently, which was really nice.

“He was always a really hands-on sort of dad.”

Lachlan with fiance Georgia. Picture: GoFundMe

Ms Tuffen set up a fundraiser to help Mr Ward’s family, whose life she said had been “turned upside down”.

“In hopes of making this hard time easier on the family, we ask for donations to help ease the considerable amount of heartache they’re enduring,” she wrote.

“Lachlan was a loving and faithful partner to Georgia, an exceptional father to his two young children, the most humble family member, and a truly welcoming and supportive friend.”

“We will forever love and miss you Lach.”

The fundraiser has raised more than $12,000 in three days.

Ms Tuffen emphasised the importance of safe and careful driving.