‘You’ll never be forgotten’: Truckies, footballers farewell Kieren

Tassie truckers left their lights on on Wednesday and a minutes silence will be observed at all Football Tasmania matches to pay respects to a young husband and much-loved soccer club captain killed in a car crash. THE TRIBUTES >>

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TASMANIAN truckers left lights on on Wednesday and a minute’s silence will be observed at all Football Tasmania matches this weekend to pay respects to a young husband and soccer club captain killed in a car crash.

Kieren Whitehouse, 23, the captain of the Somerset Sharks, died after crashing his car on a bend at Ridgley on April 15.

Football Tasmania has paid its respects saying Kieren was a wonderful young man who contributed to the club in many ways both on and off the field.

“He was a great club man who coached youth teams, helped at the club working bees and led and supported his teammates right throughout the club at Somerset,” CEO Matt Bulkeley said.

“This is obviously a very difficult time for everyone who was close to him. To acknowledge Kieren’s tragic passing we will ask that a minutes’ silence be observed before every match this weekend,” CEO Matt Bulkeley said.

Kieren Whitehouse, 23, the captain of the Somerset Sharks, died after crashing his car on a bend at Ridgley on April 15.

Trucking in Tasmania Facebook page asked that those on the road unite for Lights on Wednesday for Kieren.

“The Whitehouse family is a well known family in the industry and the family has experienced much grief in the last six months. Life has been so cruel to you all,” TiT said.

The Somerset Sharks said Kieren, its captain and leader, had a huge impact not only on the club but the whole football community in Tasmania.

“You’ll never be forgotten,” the club said.

The Burnie United Football Club also paid tribute to the young player’s wife and extended family saying Kieren’s passing was tragic.

“Kieren was a terrific captain and leader both on and off the field. From a young age he showed great skill and ability at both soccer and futsal. He was a great teammate and showed sportsmanship to all,” the club said.

“A very talented player and a highly competent and respected opponent. He will be sorely missed.”

Kieren leaves behind his wife Shania, his mother Catherine Willis, Dad Jamie Whitehouse and two sisters Paige and Renay.

Shania and Kieren celebrated their first anniversary in January.

“My heart is so, so broken. How do I possibly go on without you. My best friend, soulmate and most of all the one for me. Rest easy my darling man. I love you always and forever,” she posted on social media last week.