The family of a man whose body was found after he went missing while walking his dog have made a touching tribute, as police continue the search for answers.
Paul Graspas, 40, was found dead by his wife near his parked car in front of the St Peter and Pauls Church on Malone St in Geelong shortly after 4am on Friday.
In a statement, Mr Graspas family said they mourned the loss of a “loving” father, son, brother, uncle, and friend to many in the southeast Victoria community.
“(Mr Graspas was) a man of integrity who was happiest when surrounded by his family, friends, and church community,” the family said in a statement on Monday.
“He was a devoted father of two beautiful young children, and expecting a third on the way and had just received a promotion at his workplace.
“Known and respected in the community, a skilled sportsman who loved golf, fishing and video games. He will be desperately missed by all those he loved.”
The family urged anyone who was in the area from between Thursday evening and early Friday morning to contact Victoria police, as investigations continued.
Mr Graspas left his Western Beach Rd home, on the Geelong waterfront, about 11pm on Thursday to take his dog for a walk, but never returned home.
His wife woke in a panic about 4am when she realised the dog had returned home but her husband had not, and went outside to search for him.
Police said the 40-year-old had sustained head injuries before he died, with the exact circumstances surrounding the death yet to be determined.
Officers are treating the death as suspicious.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.