Australian teen who died while on UK gap year remembered as ‘lovely young man’
An Australian teen who died while on a gap year in the UK has been remembered as a “kind, generous and lovely young man”.
Jack Ryan, 18, was working at a school in Kent, in southeast England, when he reportedly collapsed in his on-site accommodation last week.
His father Peter Ryan broke the devastating news on social media on Sunday and thanked those who had sent messages of love and support.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“The theme has been the same throughout: Such a kind, generous and lovely young man taken way too young. So we are finding some relief in those messages. Thank you so much,” he said.
The teen’s cause of death is yet to be determined.
“We don’t have all the answers yet and I’m flying out to England ... to understand everything that has happened and bring him back home,” Ryan said.
“Jacko, you were and always will be loved by so many. You packed a lot into your 18 years, and we are all better people for having you in our lives. We love you so much.”
An online fundraiser has been launched by former schoolmates to repatriate the teen’s body home to Australia.
The “Bring Jack Ryan home” GoFundMe campaign, which has already attracted more than $40,000 in donations, says the teen was “loved by all”.
Ryan’s parents said they are “eternally grateful” to his schoolmates for the gesture and those who have contributed.
Ryan graduated from The King’s School in Parramatta in 2023, with the school describing him as “friendly and caring”.
“He was a much loved and respected member of (boarding house) Macarthur Waddy, a Kingsman who enjoyed cricket and playing in the 1st XI, and spending time with his mates,” the school said.
“It is always a tragedy to lose a young life so full of promise, and we continue to keep Jack’s parents, Kate and Peter, brother Tommy and family and friends in our prayers.”
The teen’s father said more details on a funeral service would be shared in time.
His mother Kate shared a link to an online memorial where people could share photos and stories of her boy.
