“Never thought we’d never see him again” – Family tribute to beloved father who died in cycling accident moves Singaporeans

SINGAPORE: Singaporeans were deeply moved after the family of a 53-year-old Singaporean who tragically died in a cycling accident on June 11 shared a heartfelt tribute on social media to honor him on Father’s Day.

Their tributes were shared publicly on Monday (June 17) via Death Kopitiam Singapore, a local Facebook page dedicated to sharing memorials.

The post described Mr Ong Poh Hai as a devoted and loving father, who always made it a point to call or message his children daily, and a true family man whose only priority was the well-being of his loved ones. He was also said to be an avid cyclist as he always made time for his favorite hobby despite his busy schedule.

The family expressed the deep sadness and shock they felt over the unexpected tragedy, and regretted that they did not get the chance to say goodbye to Mr Ong.

They also shared how Mr Ong and his wife had just celebrated their 29th wedding anniversary the month before and were eagerly looking forward to a family trip to Taiwan with their three children in the coming month.

The Singaporean’s eldest daughter shared a poignant memory, writing: “My father kissed my mother every morning before leaving home and told her he would see her at work. I never thought we would never see him again.”

The family’s moving tribute touched many Singaporeans, who took to the comments section to share their condolences and support.

One netizen wrote, “There are a lot of traffic accidents these days. Sorry to hear that another victim succumbed to injuries and died.”

Another netizen said: “RIP! May the wonderful memories he leaves behind comfort his family during this time of mourning! Stay strong”

A third netizen said: “I can’t imagine the family’s pain.”

The accident that claimed Mr Ong’s life occurred during his daily cycling routine. Both Mr Ong and his wife were employees at Tee Yih Jia Food Manufacturing Pte Ltd and traveled to work by bicycle.

Mr Ong, known for his early starts, left an hour before his wife on the tragic morning of June 11. Near their home, just 10 minutes away, Mr Ong was involved in a collision along Woodlands Avenue 9 near Block 780B, involving a truck and a pedestrian.

His wife was passing by the scene when she saw her husband’s bicycle and scattered shoes on the road.

Alarmed, she immediately called his phone, but instead of hearing his voice, she received the solemn news of his critical condition at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, where he later died.

TISG/