The widow of a 38-year-old ICT manager who collapsed and died at the borough council offices in Shrewsbury has paid tribute to her ‘fun-loving’ and ‘devoted’ husband.
Colleagues and friends have also paid their respects to father-of-two Haydn Smith after he suffered heart failure at the Guildhall offices last Monday, April 21. An ambulance crew were called to treat him but were unable to resuscitate him.
Mr Smith, who lived with his family in Portland Crescent, Shrewsbury, had worked for the council for the past 12 years and was assistant ICT manager. He married his wife, Karen, 36, in 1999 after the couple met at work and together they had two children – Saskia, seven, and Ryan, five.
Mrs Smith, who works for the council’s electoral services department, was not at work when the incident occurred. She said: “Haydn had a heart murmur but only a very mild one which was discovered by accident in his teens.
“He was involved in a lot of projects at the council and was very creative and good at problem solving - nothing fazed him. When the Guildhall was built, Haydn was heavily involved in setting up the ICT systems. He was also involved in computerising the entertainment system at the new theatre venue.
“Because of his job he knew so many people at the council. People were always stopping him to say hello. He was a very keen cyclist and would often go out cycling at the weekend with friends. He also cycled to and from work.
“He was absolutely fun-loving and a very loyal person. He was very trustworthy and devoted to Saskia and Ryan. They loved him to bits as did I.”
Steve Edwards, the council’s ICT and customer services manager, said: “Haydn has been an indispensable member of the ICT team. His contribution in the setting up of all the council’s ICT systems has been immense. He was not only an exemplary member of staff but also a very close friend.”
Councillor Brian Rees, portfolio holder for ICT, said: “Haydn was an outstanding member of the ICT team and one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet. He will be sadly missed.”
Councillor Mike Owen said: “Haydn was a very supportive, likeable and warm-hearted person. He was such an asset to the council especially when we were bringing changes about – he was always positive.”
A celebration service of Mr Smith’s life will be held at Emstrey Crematorium on May 6 at 12pm.
Those attending are requested to wear casual clothing and no black. Donations will be made to the Shropshire Air Ambulance.