THE family of Lee Friend, who was killed in a collision while riding his motorcycle on the A217 last month, have paid tribute to a "happy, honest, hardworking man".
Father-of-two Mr Friend, 27, was killed in a collision with two cars car on the 50 mph stretch of road in Sidlow, south of Reigate, on the morning of February 21.
His wife Stephanie, who he married just eight months ago, said: "I met Lee just over four years ago through his older brother and I instantly knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him.
"He was the most wonderful husband and father to our children.
"Following his death I have been truly overwhelmed by the messages we have received and I would like to thank every single person who has taken their time to think of us, it means a lot."
Mr Friend had an eight-year-old step-daughter and two-year-old son.
A motorcyle enthusiast and experienced rider, he had recently been promoted at the Reigate Motor Company, where he worked.
Following the promotion, the young family had planned to buy their first house.
In a statement his family said: "Lee was a happy, honest, hardworking family man, his wife Stephanie and his two children meant the world to him.
"Lee had a love for motorbikes and thoroughly enjoyed working at the Reigate Motor Company."
Mr Friend grew up in the North Cheam area and attended Glenthorne High School, Sutton.
His funeral will be held at Morden Cemetery on Friday (March 8) and the family would like to thank all those who have passed on their messages of sympathy.
Mrs Friend urged anyone who with information about the collision to contact police.
Call Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference P13053154.
