'Left this world far too soon' - tributes to Mayo man after tragic passing

Under the roof of Saint Patrick’s Church in Ballyheane, the hustle and bustle of life took a backseat, as time stood still for family, friends, and anyone who knew Patrick Kilcoyne.

Patrick was 50 years old when his life was tragically taken in a workplace accident last Tuesday, May 13.

The Errew native was working as a TV and satellite engineer when the incident took place in Carrowholly, Westport. He is survived by his wife Sharon and children Darragh, Patrick, and Michaela.

His passing is one that plunged all who knew him into grief, and it was a testament to the regard in which he was held that the church in Ballyheane was at such a high capacity.

Before entering the church, a guard of honour was formed by students from both Saint Gerald’s College and Davitt College, where Patrick’s children attend school, and the local football club.

The start of the service was delayed until five minutes past twelve due to the volume of mourners making their way past Patrick’s casket to offer their sympathy and support to the Kilcoyne family.

As the service got underway, the tones of the hymn Amazing Grace echoed around the church.

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Father Conal Eustace, the celebrant of the funeral Mass, hoped that the words and condolences of both himself and those around him could be of some consolation to Patrick’s family, and admitted that words can be hard to find to capture those sentiments of grief.

He also welcomed Father Kevin Hegarty, who celebrated the wedding of Patrick and Sharon some 20 years prior in Belmullet.

Before the service got underway, Patrick’s sister, Marie, introduced some symbols of Patrick’s life.

Firstly, Cormac brought forward a picture of Patrick’s family, which symbolised the importance that Patrick placed on them in his life.

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Next was his son Padraic, who brought forward Patrick’s work vest. Patrick was passionate about his job, having travelled around the county running his own business, PK Sound and Vision.

Emma brought to the altar a pair of luminous runners, representing Patrick’s colorful personality and panache for bright colors, in particular in footwear.

Sonny and Nora brought forward a remote control and a pair of snips, which represented his skill and dedication to achieving a mastery of his craft.

Next, Patrick’s auntie Carmel brought a picture of Scotchport Bay in Belmullet to the altar, a symbol of his love of both Belmullet and the ocean.

Up next was Charlie, who brought a pair of rosary beads up the aisle, representing Patrick’s strong Christian faith.

Aoibhinn brought an Ireland rugby jersey to the altar, which was a symbol of the days when Patrick would sit down with a pint of Bulmers to watch the Irish rugby team play.

Lastly, Anne brought forward a cushion with the words ‘World’s Best Dad’ emblazoned across the fabric, representing the love and admiration of his three children.

Next, Tommy Kilcoyne took to the altar to offer a eulogy in memory of his brother, Patrick.

“We gather here in deep sorrow, united by the painful loss of someone so dear to us,” he started.

“Pat left this world far too soon at just 50.

“It’s hard to believe someone so full of energy, life, and laughter could be taken so suddenly.”

Tommy moved to describe all three of Patrick’s children as “a shining reflection of the love and pride he carried for his family.”

He was also full of love and admiration for his brother, describing him as “a kind person whose spirit lit up every room.”

He also described Patrick’s love for having fun and making time for anyone who knew him, and his web of friends stretching back to his time in primary school.

“His laugh was contagious,” he reminisced. “If you watched a funny movie with Pat, it wasn’t just the film that made you laugh, it was Pat’s own laughter.”

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Patrick’s brother-in-law, Noel, read the first reading, followed by the second reading from his son, Darragh.

In between the two readings, Sharon, who is Patrick’s sister-in-law, sang a touching rendition of ‘The River’ by Garth Brooks.

Following the Gospel and eulogy, the prayers of the faithful were led by Patrick’s niece Katie, daughter Michaela, aunt Betty, Adam, sister-in-law Pamela, and Shaun, while brother-in-law Michael and sister-in-law Sarah brought forward the sacraments.

Before the end of the sermon, the family took the opportunity to thank all those who had put their shoulder to the wheel to offer assistance and support in their darkest hour, including the Ballyheane Community Centre, Father Conall and Father Kevin, the paramedics and an Garda Síochána, their neighbours, and all those who formed the guard of honour.

As the service drew to a close, the words of David Romano’s 1993 poem ‘When Tomorrow Starts Without Me’ were read, and it is hoped that the stanzas of the poem can offer some solace to those who knew Patrick best, as they have done for so many who have mourned the loss of loved ones before.

Following the service, Patrick was removed to Shannon Crematorium for a committal service.

May he rest in peace.