A MUCH-loved father who dedicated his life to keeping Middlesbrough’s streets clean and tidy has been immortalised on one of the town’s eye-catching new refuse trucks. 

Kenny Pattison, of Stockton, died aged 57 after a short illness. 

His family have paid tribute to the kind and generous “comedian” who dedicated his life to helping others through his local charity work. 

Mr Pattinson was born and raised in Stockton, worked for waste management company Biffa for 36 years, and was a season ticket holder at Middlesbrough FC.

“He was such a character, a comedian,” said ex-wife Helen. “You never really saw him down and he was so generous, he would give you his very last penny. He was a very selfless human being. 

“He really enjoyed his job and loved the people he worked with. He was there 36 years. We never really heard him complain about anything.”

The Northern Echo:

Mr Pattinson’s selflessness was highlighted through his monthly donations to the Billingham Foodbank. A family collection at his funeral raised £300 for the service. 

Mr Pattison leaves behind a large family, including ex-wife Helen Robson, son Glenn, brother John, sisters Sandra and Jackie, and partner Wendy Lonsdale. 

“The main thing is how much of a fantastic dad he was to Glenn. They adored each other and did everything together, every Boro match home and away. They just had so much planned.” 

The Northern Echo:

Partner Wendy also praised the devoted dad for his bond with son Glenn.
She said: “Ken was a good kind person, a good man. He would help anyone out if they were a bit stuck. He would make me laugh every day with his jokes and his banter. 

“His son was the biggest thing of his life. He was so committed to him. He wanted to see him every weekend. He was a really good dad.” 

Now Mr Pattison’s name has been emblazoned across the side of a brand new Wasteater lorry in a special tribute by his colleagues at the waste and recycling firm. 

“Seeing his name on the side of the lorry is lovely. It’s a very nice gesture and we’re all very proud. He would have been thrilled to bits,” added Ms Robson. 

Ms Lonsdale said: “The truck looks amazing, doesn’t it. I shed tears when I knew they were going to dedicate it to him. He would’ve been so proud of it.”

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