THE devastated family of a grandfather from Whitefield who died in Canada after suffering a severe stroke are facing a medical bill of more than $100,000.

Expatriate John Earwicker, who worked as a railway signalman before moving abroad after meeting his wife Lynn, collapsed at his home in St John's in Canada on November 17 and had emergency brain surgery to remove a large clot.

But a second haemorrhagic stroke left the 57-year-old paralysed on his left side and was placed in an induced coma until his death on November 29.

As well as losing her husband, Mrs Earwicker now has to deal with paying a medical bill which is likely to run into hundreds of thousands of pounds for his care and treatment, because Mr Earwicker, who moved to the country 17 years ago, was never registered as a Canadian citizen.

The heartbroken family, including Mrs Earwicker and their daughter Jamie Lynn, aged 16, and John's children Hollie, aged 31, Carly, aged 28, and Richard, aged 29, who still live in the UK, have set up a Go Fund Me page and are sending out a plea to ask people to help.

Hollie, who lives in Cumbria, said: "It is hard enough that we have lost him, but to be hit with such a high bill is too much. Lynn is really worried she might have to sell her house, or at worst declare bankruptcy. He was never registered as Canadian because they couldn't afford it.

"This is just not something we thought would ever happen. It doesn't seem real. We're devastated."

His family have paid tribute to a "wonderful father, grandfather and husband" who could make anyone smile.

The grandfather-of-five, who lived in Sterling Grove, Whitefield before moving to Canada, is well known in his hometown as a train enthusiast and worked in Prestwich signal box for more than 10 years.

Mum of three Miss Earwicker, said: "He loved his trains. They were his livelihood, but also his biggest passion. When he wasn't working he was out trainspotting with his camera, or with his family and friends.

"He used to take us all to the East Lancashire Railway every Sunday to see the trains and take pictures. Everyone will remember him for his love of the railway.

"Dad was an amazing man who was well liked by so many people who will miss him. We've all been left with a huge hole in our lives and are going to miss him so much."

Mr Earwicker was laid to rest in Canada last Friday, and his family on both sides of the Atlantic organised simultaneous services to celebrate his life.

His friend Stuart Lawrie added: "He was a loyal friend to all he met with an ability to make you laugh in your darkest moments with his quirky sense of humour. And a real railway man through and through."

To donate, visit gofundme.com/dhb98rew.