The family and friends of Andy Dejonckheere mourn his disappearance, which occurred very early Sunday morning. This volunteer firefighter and father of four children died in a motorcycle accident near his home in Hooglede while returning from a birthday party. He crashed into a flower box in a parking lot and was killed hours later in hospital from his injuries.
“He’s the most fantastic man I’ve ever met. I’m not the only one to say it, he was always there for everyone, starting with his children. He was a fantastic father, with total commitment,” explains his wife Hilde.
A broken couple
A few weeks ago, Andy and Hilde had organized a big party to celebrate their couple, during which this 50-year-old Belgian had proposed to his partner in marriage. The couple were supposed to move into a house they renovated following the wedding.
His parents don’t understand the circumstances of the incident, but are full of praise for their son: “Witnesses say he mightn’t drive fast. He must have fallen badly because his helmet was broken. He always wanted to help everyone, which is why he was so appreciated. »
A multi-hat dad
Andy had been a carpentry teacher, but had now become head of the do-it-yourself service for the city of Roeselare. He was also a limousine driver since 2019.
Besides that, he had been a volunteer with the Hooglede fire brigade since 1994. His colleagues also quickly recognized him when they arrived at the scene of the accident, as the head of the barracks explains: “These are moments, as a firefighter, that you never want to experience. Andy was someone you might count on. We met at the barracks on Sunday and this Tuesday we will lay a wreath at the scene of the accident. »
Andy Dejonckheere leaves behind his fiancée, four children, two brothers, a sister and his parents. Andy’s funeral will take place this Friday at 2 p.m. at Feryn Funeral Home in Hooglede.
