A fun-loving, life of the party who always put his friends and family first. This is how Garth Leighton will be remembered.
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Well known in the Launceston community, the 58-year-old Metro driver also known as "Gus on the bus" was killed in a motorcycle crash on January 4.
At his funeral on Friday, chaplain Ian Wheeler acknowledged the emergency service personnel who attended the crash and the tragic nature of his death.
But it was the fun and happy memories of a man who touched the lives of so many that dominated the service.
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Growing up at Newnham, Garth attended Rocherlea Primary School and later Brooks High.
In a professional life that ranged from jobs at Bell Bay Aluminium, on diving boats and driving limousines, Garth's "ultimate" calling came when he started driving buses for Metro in 1989.
Co-worker Graeme Davis, who was with the company for 50 years, said he had met many drivers in his time, but none like Garth.
"Garth will always be remembered as a gentleman and a loyal friend who was always there for those who needed a hand," Mr Davis said. "
He was a good bus driver, helping his passengers whenever they needed a little extra. He took his job seriously and he made time for everyone. He held respect for everyone ... we shall miss our very dear friend."
Garth was involved in numerous community organisations, including the Launceston Tram Society.
But it was his involvement with Launceston running club the Hash House Harriers where he perhaps left his biggest mark.
Known to them as "Hash Pash", member Neil Derbyshire spoke of the many fond memories shared with Garth, including weekends away camping and hiking.
Garth first joined the club in 1985 and returned later in life becoming a "regular runner" in 2007. In that time he clocked up 715 runs - his last being at Christmas.
Mr Derbyshire said Garth was always prepared for an adventure, loved his motorbikes, his cars, music and animals - but most of all his friends and family.
"[He was] the most helpful, obliging, thoughtful friend anyone could ever want or have," he said.
"He never had a bad word to say about anybody. Thank you to Garth for the memories."
Garth is survived by his partner Louise and children Daniel, Shaun and Matthew.
A livestream of the funeral service, hosted by Lethborg Family Funerals, can be found here.
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Being a health reporter to me is about more than just reporting the problems. It's about asking why they are happening in the first place and what needs to change to fix it.
