Jonah Lomu family touched by support after death of All Blacks legend
Thursday 19 November 2015 22:12, UK
Jonah Lomu's family have revealed their gratitude to those who have expressed their sympathy after the death of the All Blacks legend.
The rugby world, along with Hollywood stars, politicians and the many charities Lomu supported, have shown their grief after the former All Blacks winger died on Wednesday in Auckland at the age of 40 having struggled with a rare kidney disease since retiring in 2002.
Lomu leaves a wife and two young sons and his father-in-law Mervyn Quirk said the messages of support were a comfort to the family of the man hailed as rugby union's first global superstar.
In a statement, Quirk said: "We wish to thank all the people who have expressed their sympathies for our family at this incredibly difficult time.
"We are truly touched by the outpouring of love for Jonah and the support for our family. While we grieve for a husband, father, son, brother and good mate, we know that many people in New Zealand and around the world are mourning a very special individual.
"We are continuing to discuss with various parties, how we can best celebrate Jonah's life and allow people to commemorate his achievements and contributions during an all too short time on this earth."
David Beckham was among those who have honoured Lomu, tweeting his sadness at the death of "this amazing giant of a man".
"A sporting hero and one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet," the former Manchester United player said.
Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, who learned Lomu's story when shooting the movie Invictus about the 1995 World Cup that shot him to stardom, said he was "heartbroken" at the loss.
"His strength and passion were a source of inspiration to us all," he tweeted.
Lomu's death has received blanket media coverage in his homeland, even overshadowing Thursday's retirement of fellow All Black great Richie McCaw.
One broadcaster has set up a 'Jonah' pop-up channel, dedicated to non-stop repeats of highlights from Lomu's 63-Test career.
