Donvale, Melbourne: Tributes for dad and ‘good neighbour’ killed in ferocious house fire that also claimed the life of his son

Tributes are being poured in for a man described as a loving father who died alongside his son in a tragic house fire in Melbourne’s east.

Victoria Police are investigating the cause of a fire on Craig Road, Donvale, but a spokeswoman confirmed the fire was not suspicious.

Emergency services arrived at the scene at around 3:45 a.m. Saturday morning and found the two-story house on fire.

After a 45-minute battle, the fire was considered under control at around 4:30 a.m. and the bodies of father Calvin Reeder and his son Brendon were found inside.

Mr Reeder’s neighbour, Angelo von Möller, paid tribute, describing him as caring and generous.

“This is an incredibly tragic loss for our community,” Mr. Möller told NewsWire.

‘Calvin was always there for us and our neighbors, whether it was just a chat or fixing a tractor part, he was there for us.

“He was the epitome of a good neighbor. He was a loving father to his son Brendon.”

His son Brendon Reeder also died in the fire, which is not considered suspicious

The house in Melbourne’s east has been destroyed by the fire (photo)

At least twelve fire engines were reportedly on site for the fire, the cause of which is not yet known.

“The fire service tackled the fire aggressively,” a Fire Rescue Victoria spokesperson said.

‘The house was destroyed by fire and the roof collapsed.’

On Saturday afternoon, police were busy clearing the rubble and the front yard was cordoned off.

Detectives from the Arson and Explosives Department, including a fire expert, are investigating what caused the fire.

Police are asking witnesses and anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

At least 12 fire engines (one is pictured) are said to have responded to the fire, the cause of which is not yet known.

Arson detectives were on site Saturday afternoon