A homeless Dutch national who was well-known in the Pattaya community he called home for nearly two decades died early this morning, according to a message from his church.
Known as “Five-Star Tony” for his distinctive facial tattoo, the man said he’d lived on the streets for about three years and was featured here recently in a photo essay on homeless foreigners.
“It is with shock and sadness that we write to you to inform you that Tony, also fondly known as ‘5 Star Tony,’ has passed away suddenly,” according to the message from Encounter Church. “Tony was a[n] amazing character at our church and also in our lifegroups.” Tony said he was 44 when interviewed in November.
Tony’s died at 2am this morning of liver failure after falling unconscious several days ago due to consumption of alcohol, according to photojournalist Camille Gazeau.
In the interview last year, Tony described the downward spiral of his life after being married and fathering children in Thailand. He also discussed the importance of his faith, the challenges of living on the street and his unflagging love for his adopted homeland.
Related:
Photo Essay: Homeless foreigners living down and out in Pattaya
Erwin Reijenga says
rust in vrede maat…..