Family pays tribute to ‘kind and loyal’ Connor

The family of Connor James Calleja have paid tribute to their ‘kind and loyal’ son.

Connor was found dead earlier this week in the Foss Bank area of Lincoln after he went missing in the early hours of Sunday, January 11.

Connor’s family statement
“Connor was an incredibly kind and loyal person and always a joy to be around. He loved his family deeply and spoke to us every single day. We love him so much. Even when he went to university, he kept his close bond with his mum. He was genuinely happy with where his life was, and that brings us comfort. 

“Connor went to Lincoln University to study architecture, something he had always dreamed of doing. He was hardworking and determined, always achieving great grades throughout school and university. Whatever Connor did in life, he did to the best of his ability - he didn’t do half measures. He was committed to everything he did.

“He was very well thought of, and his friends, family, teachers, and lecturers always spoke so highly of him.

“He loved football and was a massive Chelsea fan. He was so proud of his team, often talking about them as if he were on the pitch himself.

“Connor had an infectious laugh and a great sense of humour. He loved music, he played piano and was teaching himself to play the guitar. He enjoyed routines and had started batch cooking his meals, he even joked about eating straight from the saucepan to avoid washing up.

“He was smart, kind, and growing in confidence every day. He loved university and was excited to return after Christmas, especially looking forward to going on a night out to celebrate his friend’s birthday.

“He had big dreams and aspirations. He wanted to design his own house and dreamed of starting his own company. He was well-travelled, fascinated by architecture, and loved family holidays, like our trip to Australia that included a tour of the Sydney Opera House.

“Connor adored his friends and was fiercely loyal – you could always rely on him. He never had a bad word to say about anyone and didn’t have a bad bone in his body.

“He loved a Sunday roast (always with cheese sauce – a family joke!) and always wrote thoughtful, heartfelt cards for birthdays and Christmas.

“He was everything to us – our baby and our world. We couldn’t have asked for a better son. Losing him has left us completely lost, but we take comfort in knowing he was happy and loved by all those around him. He gave us so much joy. We are so incredibly proud of him and that will stay with us forever.

“We deeply appreciate the kindness and support shown to us during this heartbreaking time.”