‘Incredible’ grandfather Neil Burton remembered by heartbroken family

A popular Williams Landing grandfather and bus driver has been described as an “incredible guy” by his heartbroken family after he died in a “freak accident”.

Williams Landing man Neil Burton died in a freak accident while he was fixing a car in his driveway. Picture: Supplied

A popular grandfather and bus driver from Melbourne’s west has been remembered as an “incredible man” by his heartbroken family after he died in a “freak accident” while fixing his car.

Neil James Burton, 63, died on Saturday at his Williams Landing home when a 1800kg Holden Caprice he was fixing slid off its jacks and fell on top of him.

Known affectionately by his family as “Poppy”, Mr Burton was a much-loved figure in Melbourne’s western suburbs through his work as a truck driver before he became a popular party and school bus driver.

Williams Landing man Neil Burton died in a freak accident while he was fixing a car in his driveway. Picture: Supplied

Family friend Davina Claire said Mr Burton “was always around to have a laugh and a joke”.

“He was a lot of fun, always mixing and mingling with people” she said.

“He was really well known and respected in the community and transport division as well, everyone knew who he was.

“All the kids at the schools knew who he was as well and a lot even called him ‘Poppy’ Neil, he was definitely an incredible guy and a real family man.

“He also loved his cars. Anytime he had a free moment he was out there working on his cars plus the trucks, trailers and boats ... anything mechanical he had his hands all over it.”

Neil Burton (right) has been described as the ultimate "family man" by his heartbroken loved ones. Picture: Supplied

Ms Claire said Mr Burton was also a “passionate” Holden supporter and loved his family and grandchildren.

Mr Burton married his wife Rhonda in 2009 and became stepfather to Jessica and Marcus.

An online fundraiser has been organised to help the family organise his funeral.

Ms Claire said his loved ones were in “complete shock” since his death and was taking it “one step at a time”.