HORSHAM man Jason Laurie, father to Danielle, 2, and expecting a second child with partner Sarah, died on Thursday night in a car accident on the Western Highway.

Mr Laurie's family and friends remember him as a person devoted to his family and his car.

Mr Laurie, 28, was returning home from work at Stawell Gold Mine when he hit a tree on the Western Highway, about 25 kilometres from Horsham.

"Jason was a person who had the greatest love for his family, his mum and dad, brothers Adam, Kristoffer, Jesse and Kameron, as well as his beautiful partner Sarah, daughter Danielle and their unborn baby, who have lost a very huge part of their lives," the family said in a statement.

"Beside his family, his other great passion was his car and the love of drifting. He worked hard at Kalgoorlie in the mines before moving back with the girls to Horsham to be near both sides of the family.

"Jason was very much loved by everybody who knew him. His wicked sense of humour and his heart of gold will never be replaced.

"He leaves behind a lot of happy memories and a lifetime of love.

"He is now above us with his brother Kristoffer, whom he will be teaching all about cars.

"If he wasn't out playing around with his car, he would be on the computer, catching up with mates or playing his guitar, a new hobby."

Parents Sharon and Geoff Laurie said their son could be relied on.

"Jason was also a big part of his extended family. A much loved son-in-law and brother in-law, who will always be with us and a part of us," they said.

"His attitude to life and the ones he loved was carefree but when it came to family, he was always there.

"He had a cheeky sense of humour and always had everyone on their toes trying to come up with a quick comeback, but he always had the last laugh.

"Jason was a very proud dad and loved spending time with his girls. The arrival of Danielle was his proudest moment and he was absolutely over the moon to find out that he was going to be a dad again.

"The family wish to thank everyone for their love and support at a very hard time."

•Police investigate fatal highway crash - page 2.