By Romy Stephens
The family of William Wall have paid tribute to the teenager after he tragically passed away last week.
Following a two-day search for William, who had high-functioning autism, his body was found in Yarra Junction on 23 September.
William’s dad, Shane, posted a tribute to his son on Facebook over the weekend.
“While still coming to terms of handling our grief of our loss of William I thought is [sic] was important to let the community know how much we love all of you,” the post read.
“I know you searched into the night in horrible conditions. To the people that found my boy I know who you are and I will thank you in person.
“To think William could have still been out there now as well as people still looking in this horrible weather would have broken our hearts even more.
“Be at peace my big boy.”
The teenager’s older brother, Jake, also posted a tribute on Facebook last week.
“I am lost for words an [sic] honestly don’t know what too [sic] say but that this world is so cruel and that I hope everyone keeps their loved ones close,” the post read.
“I will forever remember how caring you were and how much you supported our family by constantly looking after all the dogs, always doing something too [sic] help out around the house.
“I hope you are at peace mate and I wish I could tell you how much we all love and miss you.”
Victoria Police confirmed just before 5pm on 23 September that the 14-year-old’s body had been found.
Police said his death was not being treated as suspicious and that a report would be prepared for the Coroner.
It came after a desperate search for William took place from 22-23 September, involving police, SES, Bush Search and Rescue and local volunteers.
William left his home in Launching Place about 6.45am on 22 September, telling his family he was going for a run.
The search was focused around Warburton after reports of possible sightings in the area.
William’s father, Shane, spoke to media on Wednesday morning and said his son was an energetic and athletic young boy who hoped to one day work for Victoria Police or the Air Force.
Shane also said the community support during the search had been tremendous.
“The people around here are fantastic,” he said.
“I’ve been in the valley for a long time since we came from overseas but this has just blown me away.”
A GoFundMe has been created to raise money for William’s family and help cover the cost of bills while they grieve and also funeral expenses.
To view the GoFundMe, visit www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-william-wall.
