Ivan Hamilton was found dead in his bed in Mayfair Court, Hebburn, last month.

It is believed he died of heart failure, although his family are still awaiting test results.

The father-of-two was a heavy smoker, but his sister Karen Foster, 37, of Hexham Avenue, Hebburn, said his death had still come as a shock.

"He loved life and was a happy-go-lucky lad," she said. "We can't believe what's happened."

On the night before his death, Mr Hamilton had enjoyed an evening playing darts with his brother Kevin, 40, at Hebburn's Iona Social Club.

He returned home early because he was feeling tired and went to bed.

The next morning, he was found dead by his partner Janet.

Mr Hamilton, a former pupil at Perth Green School in Jarrow, hadn't worked for several years, but was always doing odd jobs for family and friends.

Mrs Foster said: "He'd worked on building sites when he was younger, and he'd do anything for you. He put in my fireplace and put up my dado rail.

"He loved his fishing and was always out and about on his bike. We're really going to miss him."

His mother Margaret Hamilton, 75, added: "He had a good word for everybody, and was a very loving son."

Mr Hamilton's funeral service was held at St Peter's Church in Jarrow. He is survived by his sons Jamie, 19, and Lewis, 17.

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