AN energetic, determined young man, with an infectious smile and an even more infectious buzz for life, was laid to rest in the last fortnight.

Joshua David Sternberg, who passed away on July 13 aged 21, was farewelled at St Mary’s Catholic Church on July 22.

He leaves behind his parents Bob and Carol and siblings Matt, Jesse, Kirstie, Matthew and Annie.

Hundreds of people packed into the church to say goodbye to a man who had touched so many lives.

Members of his boxing club lined the aisle in their uniforms and members of the hockey club as well as his colleagues filled the church.

A local accountancy firm also closed for the day to attend the funeral.

Josh moved to Warwick three years ago, as a bright-eyed 19-year-old who was looking forward to starting his career as a carpenter.

Mrs Sternberg said using his hands was the life Josh had always wanted to have.

“He would be the one at kindy in the corner, not playing with blocks, but using the hammer and nail toys,” she reflected.

“He never wanted to do anything else than be a carpenter like his dad.”

Josh left his school at Greenbank at 15 to begin his apprenticeship.

Such was his dedication to gain his qualifications, he would leave home on a 50cc scooter at 5.30am each morning; petrol jerry can on one side, bag of tools on the other. He did this for two years.

The minute he finished his trade qualification, Mrs Sternberg said he wasted no time moving to Warwick, where he purchased his first home.

“He was so ambitious,” she said.

“He started up his own business where he employed three people and began renovating his house.

“The quality of his work was just incredible. His father came back from seeing his work one day and said he wasn’t a carpenter, he was a craftsman.”

In his final few weeks, Josh threw himself into helping his parents renovate their house.

Such was his enthusiasm, all the people who crossed paths could only admire Josh’s fervour.

“He was called the ‘Energiser Bunny’ – he was always doing something,” Mrs Sternberg said.

“We were told (by a friend) that in his entire life, he had never seen anyone work like Josh did.”

In his farewell address, Bob Sternberg said his son’s unselfish, loving nature had been admired by all.

“Your courageous, brave and unselfish manner you had all your life is something I will always be proud of,” he said.

“I salute you for becoming the independent, driven, perfectionist and craftsman that you had become at age 21.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing depression or are thinking about taking your own life, remember that help is always available.

Support and counselling services include Lifeline (13 11 14), Headspace (4661 1999) or Warwick Hospital’s mental health department (4661 6900).