The family of a Dundee musician say they have been left “devastated” and “numb” following his sudden death aged 25.
Nathan Bellshaw, a busker and songwriter from the Hilltown, died in his sleep on April 18.
Nathan had played a gig over Easter weekend but died at around 4am on Easter Monday.
The cause of his death is not yet known.
The former Leng Medal winner was a familiar face across Dundee for busking and playing venues like Blend.
He also worked at The Attic, a community group for young people in Kirkton, and volunteered at Perthshire’s Teen Ranch.
Mum Elizabeth, 64, said: “He really pursued life with gusto and he just loved everything that he did.
“He loved working at Teen Ranch, he loved working at The Attic. Music was absolutely his passion.
“He had a big repertoire of songs that he liked to play and he often chose songs where everyone could sing along and join in.
“He was of a happy disposition.”
Sister Naomi, 24, says Nathan Bellshaw was “really outgoing and enthusiastic”.
She said: “He was a big performer and as kids we would put on plays – we were only little, like five or something, but he just loved to perform.”
Nathan was a dedicated Christian and his childhood plays often included stories from the Bible, such as Jonah and the Whale.
I can’t accept that he’s not ever going to walk through this door again
Elizabeth said: “He had a heart for God.
“I would pray with him and teach him little songs that people probably heard in Sunday school.
“He was never ashamed of his faith.”
Nathan’s death came as a huge blow to the family, with relatives as far afield as Norway and Spain getting in touch.
His wife, Lucy, was also left heartbroken by the loss.
Elizabeth added: “We’ve just been in shock, devastated.
“I’m numb. That’s the feeling I’ve been left with, just numbness.
“I can’t accept that he’s not ever going to walk through this door again.
“We’ve been very involved with Lucy since he died.
“Obviously she’s been feeling very sad and lonely.”
Funeral service
Nathan is survived by Elizabeth, Naomi, Lucy and brother Lloyd, 38.
His funeral will take place in St Salvador’s Scottish Episcopal Church at 10am on Friday May 20.
Attendees have been asked to take a single white flower which will be placed on his coffin.
Live music will performed after the service at Dundee Elim Pentecostal Church.
