Robin Thicke ‘a rock’ for his grieving family
Robin Thicke has been "a rock" for his family following the sudden death of his father Alan.
The ‘Growing Pains’ actor passed away earlier this week after suffering a heart attack, and Robin, 39, has been providing support to his brothers, Carter, 19 and Brennan, 41, along with Alan’s wife Tanya.
A source told PEOPLE: "He’s been a rock for the family. Carter is obviously still very dazed and so is their other brother. Robin is the one taking the lead and arranging everything with Alan’s wife Tanya."
Robin is also working on a memorial fund to help raise money for finding a cure for childhood juvenile diabetes, a cause which his father was particular close to.
The insider added: "He’s been spearheading all of this and remained strong and is keeping the focus to help the family plow through this."
Robin took to Instagram after his father’s death to write: "My Father passed away today. He was the best man I ever knew. The best friend I ever had. Let’s all rejoice and celebrate the joy he brought to every room he was in. We love you Alan Thicke. Thank you for your love. Love, your grateful son."
Alan’s ex-wife, Gloria Loring – who was married to the actor from 1970 and 1983 and is Brennan and Robin’s mother – said his passing came as a total "shock".
She said: "He loved his family so much. He was the centerpiece to our family and I can’t imagine going forward.
"We always had Thanksgiving and Christmas with the big, extended family, and I just can’t imagine how it’s going to be without him.
"Alan loved his kids, loved his grandkids – he was known as ‘Pops,’ and I think my sons could speak best to their relationship with him, but I know it was always one of a mentor, a counsellor, a supporter.
"He was always there when they needed him. He was very devoted to his family and he was always so much fun to have in the room anywhere he was — his sense of humour went before him."
