Family mourn death of missing man (28)

Jul 9 2009 by Graham Fraser, Hamilton Advertiser

TRIBUTES have poured in for an Uddingston man who was found dead in Bothwell at the weekend.

Peter Anthony Queen (28) had been missing from his home in Myers Crescent since last Sunday, June 28.

His disappearance prompted a major police search over five days, involving a helicopter.

Dozens of friends, family members and neighbours also joined in the search.

Peter’s body was found at 8.45pm on Friday night in Bothwell Park Industrial Estate. Police said that there were no suspicious circumstances.

In memory of the lifelong Celtic fan, football scarves, flags and floral tributes have been placed at the entrance to the street where he lived with his mother Mary.

Described as ‘popular’ and ‘fun-loving’, Peter attended St John the Baptist Primary and Holy Cross High School.

He recently moved back to the area after spending two years working as a builder in London with his brother Owen (37).

Yesterday at the family home, Owen paid tribute to his late brother. He told the Advertiser: “Peter was a great guy. He spent some time with me down south and he made a lot of friends down there.

“I think he got bored up here a lot of the time because after he came back he hadn’t found a job. But I prefer to remember him when he was having a laugh and getting on with everyone he met.

“He was lovely with his nieces and nephew too.”

Eldest brother John (39) said that Peter’s death has devastated the family, but he will be remembered as quiet and well-liked. He added: “He was straight-talking, and was not deceitful in any way. He worked hard when he could, and enjoyed the gym. He enjoyed his weekends with his pals as well.”

James Queen (29) explained how he would miss his younger brother greatly. He said: “I loved him, he was my wee brother. He has left a lot of people behind. Peter was incredibly popular as you can see from the tributes left to him. He had friends in Australia and Dubai, as well as down in London, and they are all coming back to pay their respects.

“Peter was never short of friends and we expect his funeral service to be well-attended. He was fun-loving and enjoyed a drink. But he liked to live his life the way he wanted. There were not many people who could tell him what to do.

“The family would like to thank all his friends and neighbours who have come forward and helped us out in this difficult time, especially for helping us search for our brother during the past week. The community have been supportive and we are very thankful.”

Peter Queen’s funeral is expected to take place this Monday, July 13, at St John the Baptist Church, Lower Millgate, Uddingston.