Morcombe family think of others `worse off' as they prepare for Daniel's funeral service

RED HONOUR: People attending Daniel Morcombe's public funeral service tomorrow have been urged by his family to wear a touch of red.

News was publish today, 6th December 2012 by The Australian.

AS thousands don a dash of red tomorrow to celebrate the life of murdered schoolboy Daniel Morcombe, his parents will be thinking of those whose loved ones remain lost.

Bruce Morcombe said while his family had to face the "finality" of a funeral for Daniel, there were other families "worse off".

"There are families who have suffered loss and haven't had the opportunity to say goodbye," he said.

"We've met them.

"We didn't know they would have an impact on us and that we would have an impact on their lives, but we draw parallels and strengths from them.

"Some of those people will be there tomorrow."

Mr Morcombe said he was "relieved" Daniel would finally be laid to rest, nine years to the day after the 13-year-old disappeared while waiting for a bus in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. "It's hard to put it down in words. It's more relief that we've got to this point," he said.

"We all knew the result was not great. We've known that for the best part of nine years."

More than 2000 people are expected to attend the service, which will include tributes and a procession with a 150m guard of honour.

Mr Morcombe and Daniel's older brother Dean will read the eulogy while three relatives will take part in readings throughout the Requiem Mass.

"The sadness and evil that happened was nine years ago and we really need to be thankful for the position we're in today," Mr Morcombe said.

"We're not here to be sad. We're here to say goodbye and have some meaning on his life and to talk about his legacy."

The Morcombes have asked attendees to wear red - the colour of the shirt Daniel was last wearing - symbolising the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

Mr Morcombe said it also reflected his son's personality.

"Red is a fiery colour and really described him," he said. "He was determined, strong-willed and, on occasions, stubborn.

"He wasn't a wimpish kid."

"We're suggesting people wear respectful clothing with a hint of red, whether it's a little piece of ribbon or red socks, a piece of red material in the hair or red earrings."

Mr Morcombe said the public was invited to the first ceremony, at 11am at St Catherine of Siena Church Sippy Downs, at Siena Catholic College where Daniel attended.

A large screen television will broadcast the service outside the church.

People have been urged to wear hats and bring sun screen, fold-up chairs and water.

The family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.

Daniel will then be buried privately at Woombye Cemetery, 300m from where he went missing in 2003.

Brett Peter Cowan, 43, has been charged with Daniel's murder.

His defence lawyer Tim Meehan said outside court last week that his client will plead not guilty to all charges.

Where I Found It?
Click Here