Craig Van Uden: Tributes flow for Donnybrook truck driver killed collecting skip bin

Loved ones of a South West man killed while collecting a skip bin for work have remembered him as a “funny, kind and caring” father and friend.

Truck driver Craig Van Uden was on a routine job for company Hastie Waste in the front yard of a home in Donnybrook when he was crushed on Tuesday.

Police and St John WA were called to the Owen Street property about 8am but he sadly died at the scene.

The 57-year-old’s daughter Erin paid tribute to her dad, saying he was “love by so many”.

“This is a hard time for our family and everyone who knew him,” she said.

“He was the kindest, funniest and most caring person who was loved by so many.

“We are in total shock but thank everyone who has already shown their support towards us.”

She added: “We’ve got the fire going and are sitting waiting for you to come home now Dad. We love you”.

Hastie Waste managing director Nigel Tuia described Mr Van Uden as a good friend and said his team was “still processing” his sudden passing.

“Craig was a terrific team member, who was always quick with a wave and a cheery hello,” Mr Tuia said.

“He made our workplace a happy one and spread the joy to our customers that he encountered across his day.”

Mr Van Uden’s wife Tracey also worked at the same waste management business.

“A long-serving employee of nearly 11 years, Craig will be missed terribly. We are devastated by this and committed to helping Tracey and Erin through the tough times ahead,” Mr Tuia said.

“Craig’s workmates have been offered counselling. In the short time since Tuesday, many have reached out to offer love and support, from within our industry and far beyond.

“We thank everyone for this kindness and hope that Tracey and Erin are strengthened by knowing how loved their husband and dad was.”

It is understood authorities initially assumed Mr Van Uden had suffered a medical episode after he was found collapsed under the truck but after reviewing nearby CCTV, it was determined he was crushed.

The incident happened hours before a tree lopper was electrocuted on Lilian Road in Maida Vale on Tuesday.

Mika Tua died after his pole-saw tool hit live powerlines while working to cut back vegetation at a private property.

Six St John WA crews attended the scene but could not save the 29-year-old father of three.

“Normally I always get up, make him a tea and I’m like honey, please be safe, and yesterday was the first time I didn’t say that ... and now he’s gone,” Mr Tua’s wife Shirley told 9NEWS.

“I just screamed and I couldn’t believe it.”