Touching tributes flow for beloved local shopkeeper who suddenly died

A much-loved community greengrocer has died with his sudden passing sparking an outpouring of grief from his community. 

Eddie Alameddine, 46, was the shopkeeper at the family-run Market Fresh Fruit and Veg on Marrickville Road at Dulwich Hill, in Sydney‘s inner west.  

His nephew, Ammar El-Khaled, shared the heartbreaking news to Facebook on Friday that his uncle had suddenly died. 

‘Rest in peace uncle Eddie, Dulwich Hill will miss you forever,’ Mr El-Khaled wrote. 

Locals were devastated by the news with many sharing fond memories of Mr Alameddine and his larger-than-life character. 

‘Can’t believe it, Eddie had the personality of an immortal. Always brightened my day,’ one person wrote. 

‘No way!!! He was the sweetest, kindest, funniest, most generous man ever!! RIP you beautiful man,’ a second person commented. 

A third person chimed: ‘He brought a shining presence to our Dully fam. He leaves us, so loved by so many… we were lucky to know him, may he rest in peace, his loss is immeasurable’.   

Others explained Mr Alameddine was known throughout the community as a generous and kind man. 

One person described the 46-year-old as an admirable and ‘utterly selfless’ man who would regularly help those struggling in the community. 

‘I’ll quote [Eddie]: “Take the food, I hope you come back when you have the money. It’s not important if you don’t come back, yet I hope you do”,’ they wrote. 

Another person added: ‘I am heartbroken. Eddie and I had a special bond. He shepherded me through a dreadful acrimonious relationship breakdown of 18 years. Provided me with laughter, friendship and support’. 

Mr Alameddine was also known to regularly offer children free pieces of fruit when they passed the shop. 

‘My three-year-old son has grown up with a stop by his shop for a banana and will be confused to learn he won’t be there anymore,’ another person added. 

It is understood the 46-year-old died after suffering a heart attack and is survived by his wife and their children.