'Gone but never forgotten' - Irishman who died tragically in Australia remembered at funeral

Family, friends and colleagues gathered to say their final farewells to a young man who etched his presence into the hearts of everyone he crossed paths with.

The funeral for 26-year-old Alan Walsh, known lovingly as Buller, who hailed from Rhebogue in Limerick city, was held at St Mary's Church, Athlunkard Street, this Saturday morning, before his cremation at Shannon Crematorium.

At the mass, it was his childhood friend, Thomas, who stepped forward to pay tribute on behalf of the Walsh family. With a heavy heart, he began: "It's nice to look out and see so many familiar faces. It's devastating it's on such sad circumstances, but I take some joy in it because we're all here for a common interest, which is our love for Alan, and the love he had for us."

Expressing profound gratitude to Alan's parents, Anne and Michael, who introduced their beloved son into his life when they were just four years old, Thomas recounted shared laughter, adventures, and cherished moments with Alan, throughout their 22-year friendship.

With respect to Alan's sisters, Michelle and Grace, Thomas thanked them for their generosity, as they shared their brother with him throughout their childhood. "We made memories which I'll never forget," he shared poignantly.

A dedicated sports enthusiast, the Rhebogue-native wore his team colors as badges of honor. Jerseys from each of the teams he represented – Geraldines AFC, Richmond RFC, and St Patrick's GAA – were brought to the altar, accompanied by a pool cue and his "favorite breakfast" – a chicken fillet roll.

Since 2020, he had embarked on an adventure in Australia, living and working, brimming with the zest for life that defined him, until his passing on September 28, from a sudden medical episode while at work on a mining site in Perth.

The word "positivity" was used to describe the 26-year-old's outlook on life. His lust for life was boundless, whether he was off to watch a sports match, embarking on weekend getaways, or just getting down to his local pub with his friends at the weekend.

It was clear to all who knew him that Alan was destined for greatness in the world of sports. Yet, his friends couldn't resist good-natured teasing about his reluctance to leave the comfort of his bed on cold, dim mornings. These light-hearted moments now serve as cherished memories to look back on.

An online fundraiser set up by the construction community in Australia succeeded in the repatriation of the Limerick man's remains to his homeplace.

The cremation ceremony began with the Maroon 5 lyrics: "Memories bring back you," as Alan's nearest and dearest flooded the pews to say their last goodbyes.

From Rhebogue to Perth, Alan's legacy will endure in the hearts of those who held him dear.

May he rest in peace.