THE father of a murdered York man has been praised by his family for keeping them together, despite his debilitating illness.

Jeff Wall’s son, Daniel, was killed by drug dealer John Marshall in 2003, and Jeff’s daughter, Rebecca, said her father’s strength had helped keep their family strong during the ordeal and following court case.

Rebecca said: “My dad Jeff is truly an inspiration and a fighter. He has been through lots of negatives in his life and always fought to support our family and give us the strength to go on.”

In 1986, Jeff suffered several injuries in a car accident, and was told by doctors he may never work again, but he was back driving coaches around the continent within a few months.

Eight years ago, Jeff was hospitalised for six weeks following a heart attack and bypass surgery, and was medically retired from his coach driving job after he developed diabetes.

Rebecca said: “He now suffers with vascular disease and has had two bypasses on his legs. The most recent seven-hour operation was in January, and was unsuccessful, and he has now been left with constant pain and numbness in his leg and finds walking very painful.”

Rebecca, who lives in Acomb, has nominated Jeff for Parent of the Year at the 2011 Community Pride Awards.

Jeff said the strength of his family had helped him through his illness and tragedy, but he was flattered by Rebecca’s thoughts.

He said: “I’ve got the rest of my family around me, and they know I’m here for them. That helps. I just try to keep everyone together, and on the right path. I think it’s the secret to a good family life.

“I’m flattered and embarrassed about the nomination. I’m not the type of person that goes out looking to be known, but if I can help anyone, I will, and I’d hope people feel the same.”

Rebecca said her father’s determination to remain positive and care for his family had inspired her to nominate him as parent of the year.

She said: “Through all this, my dad never complains. He smiles every day and puts his family first, even though he is in constant pain.

“I am truly proud of my dad who, through all his health problems, is always there for me, and for the rest of our family.”