A much-loved staff member at a York family attraction has died trying to save a friend.
Marek Piotrowski worked at the Web Adventure Park on Wigginton Road for more than ten years.
He had gone back to his native Poland, where he died earlier this month. He was 43.
In a Facebook post, the Web Adventure Park described him as “a huge part of the original Creepy Crawlies team”.
“Our dear Marek Maru was the biggest smiler in the park. His customer service was second to none and he was a firm favourite for the many years he worked here,” they wrote.
“He had to leave to go back to Poland but was planning to come back to the UK very soon.
“Sadly, in typical Marek style he was the first to dive into a reservoir on Friday to try to save his friend who was struggling. Unfortunately they both sadly died, Marek attempting to save his friend.”
Owner of the park Janice Dunphy told YorkMix: “He was the type of person who would have you laughing but stop your heart at the same time.
“He cared deeply for everyone and literally anyone – whether he knew them or not. He would do anything for anyone and the times I had to say ‘why are you doing that Marek!’ even continued when he went to Poland.
“We have team that are beyond devastated – we all are – he never left us despite being in Poland and was due back this month.”
His funeral is today at 3.30pm. A GoFundMe appeal has been set up in his memory here.
Friends paid these tributes to Marek:
- This is horrible to hear. I remember working along side him and he was such a great person to work with. Always kept the whole team going. Rest in peace Marek
- Such a lovely man, had the pleasure of working with him during my time at creepies. He was always so sweet. Such sad news RIP
- He was the life and soul of Creepy Crawlies. Taken too soon
- I remember years ago when my daughter was little she got accidentally hurt and Marek came over and brought her a chocolate bun for free to cheer her up. It worked. Bless him, what a kind, brave and selfless soul. So sad to read this