THE brother of Dubbo man Alois Rez has described the missing father-of-four as a caring, gentle man who deeply loved his children and would have done anything for his family.
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Arthur Smart is currently helping care for Mr Rez’ four children, aged between seven and one, with their grandmother at the family’s Dubbo home.
Mr Rez was last seen on July 28, 2013. Investigators believe he met with foul play.
His defacto, 24-year-old Sarah Renea Tarrent and long-time family associate, 51-year-old Raymond Isaac Roff have been charged with his murder. However, the body of the missing man has not yet been found.
Speaking with the Daily Liberal Mr Smart recalled a devoted brother, father and son whose shocking disappearance had left a massive hole in their family.
“It’s been especially hard on mum and the kids. What do you say to a child who asks ‘why didn’t daddy say goodbye before he went to heaven?’,” he said.
The 17 days since Mr Rez’ disappearance has been among the hardest and darkest ever encountered by his bereaved family.
However, the family’s plight has tugged at the heartstrings of strangers across the community, and as a result a special fund has been set up to help support Mr Rez’ children and grieving loved ones.
Family spokesperson Frances McIntosh took to Facebook site Dubbo Trash N Treasure to launch an appeal.
“The support for Alois’ family so far has been overwhelming,” Ms McIntosh said.
“We want to do as much as we can to help the children. But we do ask that people limit their support to donating through the proper channels, by donating through the appeal we’ve set up.”
Ms McIntosh and family friend Tony Wilson will host a fundraising event in the RSL car park on Saturday, August 24. Already many cash donations and dozens of prizes have come flooding in from private citizens and businesses from across the city.
For Mr Smart, his grief is only rivaled by his astonishment at the compassion shown for his family. And while he appreciates the outpuring of support they have received has asked people respect the family’s right to grieve privately.
“It has been especially hard on the kids,” Mr Smart said.
A trust account has been set up at the Greater Building Society Macquarie Street. Donations can be made to trustee Miss Zonia at BSB 637 000; account number 719893791. You can donate by phoning 0477 122 751 or 0438 604 002.
