Mick Fanning’s mother reveals how his elder brother Peter Fanning died

Elizabeth Osborne, Peter Fanning’s mother, has ended speculation surrounding the death of surfing world champion, Mick Fanning’s elder brother. The 43-year old lost his life a few hours before his brother went out to compete for his fourth world title. He died at his home in Tweed Heeds on Dec.16, 2015.

Speculations were persisting that Peter Fanning, father of three had died because of drug abuse. However, Ms. Osborne’s statement declaring the results of the autopsy report to Gold Coast Bulletin has ended the speculation.

She said that the older of the Fanning brother’s suffered from a hyperthyroid syndrome, which almost went on to take his life in 2012. However, since then, Peter had been living a healthy lifestyle and was maintaining a strict diet.

Ms. Osborne suggested that it was really tough to speak about her son’s death in more detail.

“I can’t do it — I am too devastated,” she told Gold Coast Bulletin.

Peter’s family and friends will gather at his home in Tweeds Head at 11:00 am to celebrate his life. In his funeral notice, Peter was described as "loved husband of Kai, treasured dad of Madeline, Nardia and Hunter, loving son of John and Elizabeth, dearly loved brother of Racheal, Edward, Sean (deceased) and Michael" as reported by Sydney Morning Herald.

Peter was not the first Fanning brother to lose his life. In 1998, another of Mick’s brothers, Sean died in a car accident.

Mick has taken time to post memories of his brother on social media. All of his posts have been met with immense love and support from all around the world.

“We really appreciate all the support that we have had from everyone,” Ms. Osborne said.

On the day of Peter Fanning’s death, Mike paid tribute to his older brother, whom he has always stated as his superhero by posting a picture of himself, “Pete” and his two other siblings in school uniforms on Instagram.