CLUTCHING the string of a balloon for his dad, two-year-old Noah Fenwick walked into the gardens at Chanterlands Crematorium.
Seconds later, the balloon was soaring high – one of dozens released by Paul Fenwick's family and friends after his funeral yesterday.
Dad-of-two Paul, 31, known as "Podgie", fell to his death from scaffolding, while building an extension at his family's home in James Reckitt Avenue, east Hull, on July 1.
He had been on paternity leave after his partner Ixchel Wilson, 28, gave birth to their daughter Emilia Chloe two weeks ago.
Reverend Stuart Spandler told the congregation of more than 300, many of whom were forced to stand during the service, how Paul – a devoted Christian – helped spread happiness.
"While I was reading about Podgie in the Mail I noticed a separate piece about Ken Dodd's Happiness Show coming to Bridlington," he said.
"When you think about it, that's exactly what Podgie's life was – a 31-year-long happiness show.
"Podgie brought happiness into the lives of everyone he came into contact with."
Rev Spandler said there were three things that brought together the congregation gathered in the large chapel.
"Those three things are admiration, respect and love for Paul Fenwick," he said.
"When I say love, I am not talking about that wishy-washy Barbara Cartland type of love.
"I am talking about the type of love that says, 'I am here for you no matter what'.
"Podgie loved you."
Just then, Noah, who wore a smart white shirt, rose to his feet, faced the congregation and flashed a wide smile.
Rev Spandler told how, when Paul was only a little older than Noah, he had run off, sparking a hunt by his frantic dad, also called Paul.
"Paul spotted Podgie," said Rev Spandler.
"He was in a milk float over the road, just about to put his foot on the pedal. Off it went down the road, with Podgie giving his cheeky grin."
Rev Spandler spoke of Paul's deep faith.
"There was also a serious side to Podgie," he said. "Having studied many of the world's different religions, Podgie had a very deep-seated belief in God.
"He wanted to go out and do things and make a difference to people's lives.
"It was that commitment to changing lives that led him to work at Dove House Hospice. A volunteer at first, Podgie had found a real niche.
"He found that he really could make a difference. People there need someone to reach out to them. Podgie did just that."
Rev Spandler said Paul's own life changed when he met his partner.
"Podgie was totally devoted to Ixchel and his family.
"He was so proud of the work he was doing on his house – his family's home."
Since the tragedy, many of his friends have left messages on Facebook to share their memories of him.
"You have to see all the messages to see the scale of his popularity," said Rev Spandler.
Paul's memory lives on, said Rev Spandler.
"The best tribute you can pay to Podgie is get out there and, in his name, bring happiness into the lives of everyone you meet," he said.
Paul's cousin, Claire Moult, whose idea it was to release balloons at the end of the service, explained their significance.
"It's a visual way of letting him go," she said. "I grew up with Podgie on the Greatfield estate. He was genuine. He had a big heart. Podgie would do anything for anyone.
"He was humorous and, in any situation, he would lighten the mood."
As the balloons were carried away on the breeze, Paul's father looked up and said: "I love you. Stay happy, Podgie."
