A family is left reeling after a father suffers a fatal heart attack during his son's funeral service, marking a tragic day of loss.
A family in Middlesbrough is mourning the loss of two loved ones after a father collapsed and died during his son’s funeral service. Norman “Nosha” White, 61, suffered what is believed to be a massive heart attack as his son David Beilicki’s coffin was brought into St Bede’s Chapel at Teesside Crematorium.
This tragic incident has left the family with a profound sense of loss as they navigate this harrowing experience.
Chain of Events Leading to Tragedy
The funeral for David Beilicki, 41, took place on August 21, following his untimely death on July 31.
David, who struggled with long-term drug addiction, was reportedly making progress toward recovery. However, he was found dead on a relative’s sofa, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of the memorial service for his stillborn twin sons.
Chantelle Beilicki, David’s sister, described the events as surreal, likening them to a film plot.
Her brother’s unexpected death on such a significant date, followed immediately by their father’s collapse, has plunged the family into deep shock. “It has been so traumatic; you wouldn’t think anything like this could happen,” she lamented.
As the service began, Chantelle recalled looking around and asking, “Where’s my dad?” Moments later, she learned that Norman had collapsed. In a frantic rush, she went outside to assess the situation, only to find her father in grave condition.
The Aftermath of a Dual Tragedy
With the chapel evacuated and an ambulance en route, Norman was rushed to the hospital. Chantelle accompanied him, while other family members continued with the funeral service, unaware of the devastating news that awaited them. Unfortunately, they soon received the heart-wrenching confirmation that Norman had died.
In the wake of this dual tragedy, Chantelle expressed her struggle to process losing both her brother and father in such rapid succession. She noted that Norman had no prior heart issues, adding disbelief to their grief. “I think he must have died from a broken heart,” she reflected, suggesting that witnessing the family gathered may have overwhelmed him.
Despite his challenges, David was cherished by those around him. He was a father to Ethan, his adult son, and Jaxon, aged nine. Chantelle emphasized his loving nature, stating, “He had a heart as big as the ocean. He is so missed.” David had lived with Chantelle and her family, and she noted how deeply affected her children are by his absence, declaring, “The whole place just isn’t the same without him.”
A Father Remembered
Norman White was renowned for his passion for boxing and his dedication to training others. Chantelle described him as a reserved individual who was well-liked in the community. “He was my dad, and I idolized him,” she said, highlighting their deep bond.
In light of the tragedy, Chantelle praised the staff at Rose Funerals for their support during this traumatic time. “They were fantastic throughout the event. Our family could not have gotten through that day without them,” she shared, expressing gratitude for their empathy as they navigated their grief while working to save Norman.
Norman’s funeral service is scheduled for September 18 at St Hilda’s Chapel at Teesside Crematorium, beginning at 1:30 PM. This date marks another somber moment for the family as they continue to grapple with the loss of two beloved family members in such a short span.
