‘He was a guiding light’: tributes paid to Slough man as murder probe continues

Tributes have been paid to a Slough man as police continue a murder investigation over his death.

Tomasz Kopec, 46, a father and grandfather, has been remembered by his family as ‘a guiding light’ whose 'countless memories we’ll forever hold dear'.

Mr Kopec and a 34-year-old woman were the victims of an assault in Grant Avenue in the early hours of Friday, April 25. He died in hospital two days later while the woman was given minor medical treatment.

Jakub Nowicki, of Ascot Road, Maidenhead, was charged with Section 18 grievous bodily harm; assault occasioning actual bodily harm and criminal damage on Saturday.

The 40-year-old appeared at Reading Magistrates’ Court on Monday and was remanded to custody to appear at Reading Crown Court on May 26.

'A guiding light'

A statement from Mr Kopec’s family paid tribute to a father and grandfather who had ‘the biggest heart’ whose ‘spirit lives on in the lessons he taught’.

“Tomasz was a father, grandfather, brother, an uncle and to many, a friend,” the statement said. 

“To his family, he was a guiding light—always present, always supportive, and always ready with a smile or a word of encouragement.

“Tomasz was a man who valued time with those he loved. 

“Whether it was a quiet day by the water with a fishing rod in hand, watching his sons play football games, or taking a trip with loved ones on his motorbike, he found joy in the simple things, especially when they were shared with family and friends. 

“His love was steady and his laughter was a gift, echoing through countless memories we’ll forever hold dear.

“He taught us the importance of showing up—for the big moments and the small ones. 

“He taught us how to be strong, how to be kind, and how to live life with heart—and he had the biggest heart. 

"Tomasz’s legacy isn’t just in the stories we’ll tell, but in the way he made us feel—loved, supported, and cherished.

“Though he is no longer with us in person, his spirit lives on in the lessons he taught, the traditions he passed down, and the deep love he gave so freely. 

“We miss him so much, but we will carry him with us always."

Thames Valley Police said Mr Kopec's family are being supported by specially trained officers.