A native of Tramore, Co Waterford, John had lived in Gorey for over 25 years with his wife Orna and had strong links to Nairobi in Kenya where he worked.
John suffered a medical emergency while taking part in the Iron Man 70.3 in Turkey, which involves a 1.9 km swim, a 90 km bike ride, and a 21.1 km run.
His funeral took place on Monday, November 17, in the Church of the Holy Cross, Tramore, Co. Waterford, in which the priest described him as a wholehearted, generous, and passionate person, who was “taken from this world far too soon”.
Although originally from Waterford, he had spent most of his life in Gorey with his wife Orna and his community of many friends. He also worked in Nairobi, Kenya at Bimeda where he was highly regarded by his colleagues.
“For over 25 years he made his home in Wexford, where his kindness and work ethic touched so many. He never did anything halfway, whether it was his job or friendships – he gave all of himself,” he said.
He also emphasised John’s great love for sport as both a spectator and a participant.
“He loved sport, not just watching it but entering competitions and pushed his limits in Iron Man and triathlons. His dedication and drive is part of what made him who he was. He also had enormous pride in diving. He lived his life with adventure and travelled far and dreamed big. His final illness took place in Turkey where he didn’t expect his journey to end,” he added.
Among the symbols brought to the altar to represent his life was a certificate of achievement in fitness, a basketball trophy, merchandise from motor racing, and some of his diaries.
Loved ones also took to RIP.ie to leave messages and anecdotes about his supportive and adventurous spirit.
One mourner wrote: “I remember him as a very talented sportsman not only on Tramore CBS teams but also with the Micheál Mac Craith club. He was a lovely genuine person with great leadership qualities.”
There was also an influx of tributes by his co-workers who described the immense impact he had on the company as both a mentor and a friend.
One mourner wrote: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of a boss and dear friend. I keep replaying the fond memories of how you used to call out to me, small moments that now mean so much. Each day, I still catch myself gazing toward your office, hoping to see you walk in with your familiar warmth and presence. Your guidance, kindness, and friendship left a lasting mark on my life, and I will forever be grateful for the time we shared. May your gentle soul rest in peace, and may your family find comfort in knowing how profoundly you touched the lives of those around you.”
Another wrote: “John was a true mentor who always pushed you beyond limit as long as he saw the potential in you. Thanks for believing in me and always giving me a chance to thrive no matter the circumstances. Thanks for teaching me to put my heart in all that I had to engage in and the inspiration to keep pushing, May your spirit live on John!”
A further tribute read: “He was far more than a boss to me – he was a true friend, a mentor, and someone whose support meant more than words can fully express. John had a rare way of lifting people up, and I will always be grateful for the kindness, guidance, and genuine friendship he shared with me. His absence leaves a profound void, but his influence, generosity, and spirit will stay with me always. Please accept my deepest condolences. May we all find comfort in remembering the remarkable person he was and the countless lives he touched with his warmth and strength.”
There were also tributes from those who travelled and participated alongside John in that recent triathlon and will remember his strength going forward.
One participant wrote: “My heart is truly heavy as I write this. John and I travelled together to Turkey for the Ironman, and during that trip we formed a bond I will always hold close. We trained, laughed, and encouraged each other through every moment of preparation. He carried a spirit that lifted those around him, and I am grateful I had the privilege of sharing those days with him. Losing him in such a painful and unexpected way has left a deep void. John lived with courage, heart, and an energy that inspired everyone who stood beside him. I will remember him not for how he left us, but for how he lived with passion, kindness, and strength.”
John was the dearly beloved husband of Orna, son of Eileen and the late John, twin brother of Edward and brothers Norman and Michael, he will be deeply missed by his mother-in-law Aileen, father-in-law Joe, brothers-in-law Paul, Eoin, Dara, Neil and Joe, sisters-in-law Clíodhna, Gemma, Niamh, Sinead, Áine, Róisín and Fiona, nieces Aurora, Ava, Aoibheann, Cara, Seona, Dearbhla, Megan and Doireann, nephews Riley, Rúadhán, Rian, Ciarán, Tiarnán and Eoin, relatives, friends, neighbours and work colleagues.
A representative from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that although they do not comment on individual cases, they confirmed they were aware of the case and had provided consular assistance.
Deputy Brian Brennan extended his thanks to both the Department and the Kevin Bell Trust for their great support during this emotional time.
“I wish to extend my deepest condolences to John’s wife in Gorey and his family in Tramore. This has been a very traumatic and deeply sad time for the family. I am very grateful for the consular work of the Department of Foreign Affairs, who I have worked closely with during the repatriation process, and to the Kevin Bell Trust for all that they have done for John and for the families that they support,” he said.