Tributes to 'dedicated' Thornton carer and father-of-two who has died from coronavirus

Ricardo "Ricky" Bonsato, 54, cared for residents at Thornton House before contracting coronavirus on May 2.

He was admitted to Blackpool Victoria Hospital where he was treated for three weeks before his death on Sunday, May 24.

Born and raised in Sison, Pangasinan in the Phillipines, Mr Bonsato and his family moved to the UK, where he and his wife brought comfort to many as dedicated members of care teams in the Wyre.

A spokesman for Thornton House said: "It's with great sadness we are having to share such devastating news of the loss of our dearest friend and colleague Ricky Bonsato.

"Ricky was a great and valued member of our team at Thornton House.

"Ricky was much loved by all our residents and staff and will be greatly missed.

"Our love, thoughts and support go to his loving family at this tragic time and always.

"Ricky will always be remembered by all for his witty sense of humour and his exceptional caring skills.

"Rest in peace Ricky. Good night and God bless."

Lancashire County Council, who run Thornton House, said Mr Bonsato had been a 'popular and dedicated' member of staff whose death has 'deeply affected' his colleagues and the residents at the home.

A spokesman said: "We'd like to offer our sincerest condolences to the family of our colleague, Ricardo "Ricky" Bonsato, following his death due to coronavirus.

"Ricky worked as a carer at Thornton House, one of our care homes, where he was a popular and dedicated member of staff, much loved by colleagues and residents alike.

"Professionally he was a real asset to the team. His death has deeply affected everyone at the home.

"Our hearts go out to Ricky's family, friends and colleagues.

"As a mark of respect, our flag at County Hall has been lowered to half-mast today and will be again when he is laid to rest."

A Go Fund Me campaign has been set up to help his bereaved family with funeral expenses. You can visit the page here.