A devoted father who 'dedicated his life to his loving family' was found dead in a children's play area in Cornwall, an inquest has heard. Terry Howe, 47, was discovered unresponsive in the play area of Boscawen Park in Truro in the early hours of August 8.
The inquest at Pydar House in Truro heard that the forklift driver had been suffering from low mood in the weeks leading up to his death. His wife Danielle said he was 'always on the go' and 'would do anything to help anyone out'. However, his mental health declined after he reported being sexually assaulted by a surgeon at Royal Cornwall Hospital, a case that was later dropped.
On the night of his death, Mr Howe got up at around 1am to smoke a cigarette and made a pot noodle for his son. He then said he was going for a walk but did not return. His family found him unresponsive in the play area, and police and ambulance crews performed CPR but were unable to save him.
Senior coroner Andrew Cox recorded a conclusion of suicide, stating there was no evidence of third-party involvement. He noted that Mr Howe had used recreational drugs which appeared to have worsened his mood and made him paranoid.
In a statement read at the inquest, Mr Howe's mother and sister described him as a 'kind, caring, gentle soul' and a 'fantastic husband' and 'amazing family man'. They said: 'We will always remember Terry's beautiful smile, his kindness and pure joy he always brought into our lives.'
