Widespread sadness at death of popular young Offaly man

WARM tributes have been paid to the late Ian O'Brien, O'Moore St, Tullamore, who passed away earlier this week.

Aged just in his 40s, Ian was a very popular bar man in Kelly's roadhouse in Mucklagh and had worked in various establishments during his career, including the former Characters Bar in Market Square in Tullamore.

A fanatic football fan, Ian was a passionate supporter of Liverpool FC.

Ian passed away peacefully at the Regional Hospital Tullamore following an illness borne with courage.

He was pre-deceased by his father Johnny and step father John and will be sadly missed by his heartbroken mother Lynda and loving brothers Daniel, Tristan and Glen, sister in law Maria, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and many friends.

His remains will repose at O'Reilly's Funeral Home, Harbour Street, Tullamore (R35 FC84) on Friday from 6.30pm until 8.30pm.

Removal from the home of his brother Daniel, 187 Arden View, Tullamore, on Saturday morning at 9.30am to the Church of the Assumption, Tullamore, arriving for Funeral Mass at 10am. Burial after Mass in Clonminch Cemetery, Tullamore.

Family flowers only, please. Donations in lieu to the Oncology Unit of the Regional Hospital Tullamore

House private Saturday morning

Funeral Mass can be viewed on ttps://www.mcn.live/Cameras/church-of-the-assumption-tullamore

Many online tributes have been paid to Ian who was very popular and well known member of the community in the wider Tullamore area.

Wrote Tullamore FC: Everyone at Tullamore Town FC would like to extend our deepest condolences to Dan, our club secretary, and to all of Ian's family and friends on his passing. Ian's passion for football was second to none, and he was a gentleman of the highest order. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

Yvonne Brady wrote: "They say the good die young it still doesn’t make it any easier Iano…. Our hearts are broke . . our grief is unmeasurable we lost a good friend ..to me you were like a second son … I’ve so many memories of you Ian and I’ll treasure them for life … it’s hard to say goodbye but we must … you never gave up and were determined and positive till the end but god had bigger plans for you Ian … So take your place with the angels in heaven and watch over us … sleep tight my friend your battle is fought and you will never be forgotten….love you now and always … rest in peace Ian."

James Rock penned: "Can't believe I've to write this miss you forever Iano. Our banter is over but memories will live on forever. United v the Pool games will never be same with out your input. May your gentle soul rest in peace amen. Condolences to your family and wide circle of friends."

Wrote Susan Bryans: "Sleep well me aul buddie. Taken from us way too soon. You fought a brave battle. Thanks for the many years of friendship and laughter. We will love and miss you forever Ian. Our hearts are broken."