Heartwarming tributes have been paid to a much-loved RSPCA Inspector who dedicated 31 years of his life to rescuing animals and saving many of their lives.
Inspector David McAdam, of Mansfield, in Nottinghamshire, passed away on Friday (February 11) aged 57.
Dave, a former paratrooper, had worked for the animal welfare charity for over three decades and was more recently based in the Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire Inspectorate group but had previously also worked in the Derbyshire and Staffordshire group.
Over his career in the RSPCA he helped save thousands of animals and also helped hundreds of people who needed help and advice in caring for their pets.
He also brought to justice those who had committed serious animal cruelty offences and ‘lived and breathed’ the RSPCA.
Dave met his wife, Tina, through his work while she was also an inspector and during his career he made countless friends and gained much respect. They all adored him for his dedication, compassion and his bright personality which ‘could light up a room’.
Jo Maddock, branch manager at RSPCA Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, worked closely with Dave during her 25 years in her role and described him as her best friend.
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A touching tribute posted on the branch Facebook page, from Jo and her deputy Donna Cuthbert reads: “The word devastated does not come anywhere close to describing how we felt on hearing the news of his passing. It doesn’t seem real.”
“We were beyond lucky to have a workmate like you. You always, without fail, went above and beyond for animals, never losing sight of what you became an inspector for. You had the enviable ability to put people at ease – to connect with those from all walks of life to reason calmly and get positive results with the least amount of fuss.”
“We’ve known you over 25 years and back in those days you were known as ‘Action man McAdam’ happy to abseil or coordinate boat rescues to save animals in and help take new officers under your wing to train them.”
“All you did for the thousands of animals; hundreds of people and your grieving friends is appreciated more than we can say.”
“The RSPCA in Nottingham is a family. The job becomes part of you, a way of life and Dave, you were the family’s heart, and your passing has consequently, collectively broken ours.”
Ella Carpenter, the manager of RSPCA Radcliffe Animal Centre in Nottingham, also worked closely with Dave throughout his RSPCA career, and said in a touching tribute: “The world has lost one of the kindest, bravest, most dedicated, heroic, funniest, caring human beings that will ever be known to us.”
“A person that gave his life to the rescue of vulnerable animals, a person that saved so many and changed the lives of those that couldn’t help themselves.”
“A person brave enough to stand up for those that didn’t have a voice, that brought them to safety regardless of danger.”
“A person who helped bring justice and inspired his colleagues, young and old. A person who listened, understood and showed compassion to those people that needed help, those that struggled or had fallen on hard times and needed advice and support with their pets, not judgment.”
“We miss you so much. You are irreplaceable. You could light up any room and make anyone laugh and feel worthwhile. We know you will be watching over us and that is why we will find the strength to go on. Every animal we save will be one for you.”
“All we ask is that you now rest in peace, beautiful and cherished soul. You will never be forgotten and remain in our hearts forever.”
Matt Sacks, RSPCA Superintendent for the North area, also paid tribute to his colleague of 27 years.
Matt said: “Dave was absolutely dedicated to the job and passionate about animal welfare. His determination and strength of character shown during his career was second to none and he always worked tirelessly towards the best solution.”
“He also had an incredible capacity to always make time for everyone around him, no matter how busy, or how challenging the demands at the time may have been.”
“He would be the first to drop everything to help a colleague in need – whenever a particularly challenging rescue or case investigation cropped up, Dave was there for his team – leading or supporting so that nobody felt vulnerable or under too much pressure.”
“He had a great personality and an infectious sense of humour which all those who knew him will undoubtedly miss.”
“Dave’s passing is an incredibly sad loss to the RSPCA family and our thoughts are with his family at this tragic time.”
Dave leaves behind his wife Tina and daughter Cara aged 10 who are devastated by their loss.
The funeral arrangements for Dave have yet to be made.