Kind-hearted SA dad Tommy Oswald’s death sparks outpouring of support

Australians far and wide have come together for the grieving family of Adelaide man Tommy Oswald, who has died suddenly aged 33.

Adelaide dad Tommy Oswald with his wife Alana. Picture: GoFundMe

Aussies have rallied around the family of a young Adelaide man known for his kind heart after news of his shock death emerged this week.

More than $17,000 has been donated to a fundraiser supporting the family of 33-year-old Tommy Oswald – nee Connolly – whose sudden death was announced on Saturday and is under investigation by police.

In a statement, his family said the world was “a lesser place today after the death of Tommy Oswald”.

“Tommy, 33, was a beautiful young father and loving husband, who had a huge impact on the lives of all who knew him,” the statement said.

“Police are investigating the cause of his death, and his wife Alana and extended family have asked for privacy during this terrible time.”

The young dad was living in Adelaide at the time of his death.

Tommy Oswald with his wife Alana. Picture: GoFundMe

Mr Oswald earned himself the title of ‘Australia’s nicest bloke’ after he took in his homeless, pregnant cousin who had nowhere to go while living in Queensland – a story that went viral a decade ago.

Mr Oswald, who was most recently living in Adelaide, was also a runner who founded Facebook group Athletes Australia. The group has attracted more than 35,000 members.

He is survived by his wife Alana and their young daughter.

Australia ’s nicest bloke Tommy Oswald dies suddenly aged 33. Picture: Supplied

Mr Oswald, who was most recently living in Adelaide, was also a runner who founded Facebook group Athletes AustraliaPicture: Supplied

The GoFundMe page for his family had surpassed its $15,000 goal shortly after it was launched by friend Jason Wright.

Mr Wright said his friend’s death came as a “complete shock”.

“I am privileged to have been Tommy’s mate for 10 years,” he wrote.

“He was the guy that helps you move, jumps on a ladder and helps you paint a gutter, picks you up from the pub drunk or goes for a long beach walk and listens to your problems.

“Many of my network and friends have been privileged to experience his friendship and/or had the opportunity to work with him and I am now asking you to help his family with a gesture of goodwill.”

Originally published as Kind-hearted SA dad Tommy Oswald’s death sparks outpouring of support