Lorry driver killed ‘on his last run’

Dad of two Richard (Ricky) Patterson (45), from Mussenden Road, Articlave, wanted to give up full-time driving to spend more time with his family.

His brother Ian said: “It was his last day at work. He wanted to give up the long runs because it often meant weekend work and he didn’t get to see his family as much as he wanted.

“He had actually got himself a new job and was due to start this week.”

Mr Patterson died in the crash on the M1 southbound close to Junction 11 near Monasterboice in Drogheda around lunchtime on Thursday.

It’s understood that his lorry collided with a broken-down van parked on the hard shoulder. The lorry had then turned onto its side onto an embankment.

Born and raised in Stewartsdown, Ricky had been living in the Coleraine area for the past 15 years.

He was a driver for Laverty Properties Ltd, Loughiel, but before that had worked as an engineer.

Ian described his brother as a family man who was an enthusiastic church-goer: “He was a big Liverpool fan, enjoyed fishing and was a devoted father.

“In recent years his big interest was the Elim Church in Coleraine. He was a member of the church committee and had organised fundraising events like sponsored walks for the church.

“He was very popular and had a lot of friends who were lorry drivers. Many of them have visited the family home over the past few days.”

The mayor of Drogheda, Kevin Callan, said that everyone had been shocked to hear of Mr Patteson’s death.

He said: “I think I speak on behalf of everyone in Drogheda when we extend our sympathies, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family.”

Mr Patterson’s funeral took place in Still Waters Elim Church on Monday afternoon followed by interment at Portstewart Cemetery.

He was the dearly loved partner of Bonny, much loved father of Ryanne (19) and David (4), stepdad to Aaron and Mark, devoted son of Lorna and David, and brother of Stephen and Ian.