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Tears flow for Perth teen Buster Vogt, who died after walking his dog

Brittany HoskinsThe West Australian
VideoYear 9 student Buster Vogt died suddenly while walking his dog in Yangebup.

The heartbroken family of a Perth teenager who died suddenly while walking his dog on Wednesday has paid tribute to their soccer-loving son whose greatest mission in life was to be a good mate.

Buster Vogt was just 14 when a retired paramedic found the Emmanuel College student lying unresponsive in the street.

The passer by tried to revive him, but Buster never regained consciousness. The cause of his death is unknown, but Buster’s father Martin Vogt said it was presumed to be “instant”.

Mr Vogt said he, Buster’s mother Zoe Haddrell and sister Millie had received more than 1500 messages from Buster’s friends in the days since his death.

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Buster Vogt.
Camera IconBuster Vogt. Credit: supplied by family

“We had spoken to him recently about what is most important to him and in short, it was always about just being a great friend to others,” Mr Vogt said in a statement.

“Given the support and feedback from so many people he was so truly loved by so many.

“As parents, you just love your kids but the heartbreak that has flowed through the community the last few days has been a wave of grief. Buster’s legacy is ‘just be a good friend’.”

In a cruel blow, the COVID-19 crisis means Buster’s family won’t be able to hold a funeral for him. His parents asked for those who wanted to pay tribute to Buster to instead play the song It must be love by English band Madness.

Soccer mad: Buster Vogt
Camera IconSoccer mad: Buster Vogt Credit: supplied/supplied by family

“We ask everyone to please take on board Buster’s own code and be a good friend to others,” Mr Vogt said.

“On behalf of his family we would like to thank everyone who has been so amazing, not just the last few days but for his whole life. His legacy will live on and as parents we are devastated.”

Earlier this week Emmanuel Catholic College principal Leo Di Gregorio extended his condolences to Buster’s family and to his friends.

“The college community is deeply saddened by Buster’s sudden and unexplained passing,” Mr Di Gregorio said.

“He has been a valued and much-loved member of our community since Year 7 and he will be greatly missed by his teachers, friends and community members.”

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