Belfast restaurateur Michael Deane has paid a warm tribute to his father, Ted, following his death at the age of 95.
Mr Deane passed away on Monday morning at his home in Carryduff.
One of his two sons, Michael, who is married to former UTV news presenter Kate Smith and has a grown up son, Marco, owns six restaurants in Belfast, including Deanes at Queen’s, Love Fish and Eipic.
Taking to social media to announce the sad loss of his only surviving parent, Michael, 61, said: "This morning we lost Team leader Papa Ted. He was 95 years young."
Read more: Chef Chris McClurg makes it to Great British Menu final with Derry Girls inspired dessert
The Michelin starred chef added: "Ted was a total inspiration and touched the hearts of many especially all of us in the Deane household and every one us aboard Deanes Restaurant Belfast.
"Never a cross word in our 61 years as father and son and our friendship was everlasting.
"I will miss him terribly and his wisdom to guide me through the darkness. I really wish I could have been more like him and follow his judgment better.
"Rest easy Dad with your great faith I know you were preparing for the next chapter, travel safely."
Many took to social media to offer their condolences to the family following their loss including Paul Stafford, co-owner of Stafford Hair, who said: "RIP Ted , a hero of a man , great words Michael.
"Your dad was a legend and gentleman, he will be missed by us all ….. sending love and thoughts."
Mr Deane, a former electrical engineer and head of Telefusion, was predeceased by his first wife Ella but later remarried.
A family notice said Mr Deane was the beloved husband of Barbara and the late Ella, loving father of Michael and Alan, cherished grandfather of Marco and Kale and dear father in-law of Kate.
A tribute to him will take on place on Saturday 16th April at 11.30am in Melville Morgan Funeral Home, 114 Holywood Rd, Belfast, BT4 1NU following a private family cremation.
It continued: "Family flowers only please. Donations in lieu may be made to either Christian Aid or R.N.I.D c/o Melville Morgan Funeral Directors (address as above)
"Rest easy Ted...a legend in your lifetime and forever remembered with love."
Read more: Alan Carr enjoys lunch at top Belfast restaurant on visit for Waterfront Hall gigs
Read more: Belfast restaurant forced to cancel bookings as terrace doesn't meet requirements
To get the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter.
