Brain tumour claims much-loved Bristol dad

A family man from Yate has died from a brain tumour – at just 36.

Kelvin Lake was diagnosed with cancer four years ago but he only discovered his illness was terminal in January.

He met the love of his life, Helena, 15 years ago through mutual friends.

They got engaged at Christmas 1999 when Kelvin proposed by wrapping up a cuddly toy with a ring.

They were married in Cuba on September 12, 2003, in a gazebo overlooking the sea.

Three years later, their daughter, Marni was born.

Helena said: "Marni is only three so we don't really know how she's coping.

"She asks where Daddy is and I point up at the sky. But because it's been cloudy the last few days and she says she can't see him.

"I just tell her he's up there and he can see her."

Kelvin, who was born in Southmead and had one sister Angela, 39, went to King Edmund School, and worked for South West Storage.

Helena, 31, said: "Kelvin was a loving man, very selfless, and always thought of everyone else before himself, and he never complained about his illness. He was very brave."

Kelvin, who only took time off from his job as a welder to undergo radiotherapy, died at home in Hatherley, in Yate, last Thursday.

He loved going out drinking with his friends, and especially enjoyed a pint of Guinness.

Kelvin was a Manchester United fan and although he was only able to go to Old Trafford once he always watched his team play on TV.

Helena and Kelvin enjoyed many holidays together as a couple, including trips to Tenerife, Crete and the Dominican Republic.

Helena said she had told her husband's friends that they "must become Manchester United fans on Friday" for his funeral. She said Unfinished Sympathy by Massive Attack will be played at the service.

Kelvin always knew that his life would be cut short by cancer, but it wasn't until January 26 this year that he discovered it was terminal.

Helena said: "When Kelvin had his diagnosis he had his ups and downs. But he took it so well and tried to carry on as normal."

She added: "I think at the moment I am just running on adrenaline as I have so much to organise with the funeral and paperwork."

As well as his sister, wife and daughter, Kelvin also leaves his mum, Barbara Clegg, and dad Adrian Lake, as well as stepbrothers and stepsisters.

His funeral takes place tomorrow (Friday, May 22) at 12.30pm at Bristol Memorial Woodlands, in Earthcote Green. Between 100 and 200 people are expected to attend. Everyone who knew Kelvin is invited.

Helena has taken her daughter to Memorial Woodlands in advance of the funeral to get her used to the surroundings.

The service will be followed by a cremation at Westerleigh Crematorium which will be attended by close family.

There will be family flowers only but donations can be made to Marie Curie Cancer Care.