He has been remembererd as a “tireless worker” and “selfless volunteer”
Liam Burns (left) with Anthony Cacace (right) and his world title belts in 2024(Image: Holy Trinity Boxing Club)
Belfast boxing coach Liam Burns has been remembererd as a “tireless worker” and “selfless volunteer” following his death.
The Andersonstown native was a coach at the Holy Trinity boxing club, which has nurtured the likes of Anthony Cacace, Lewis Crocker, CaoimhÃn Agyarko and Sean McComb among many others over the years.
Liam passed away peacefully at the Royal Victoria Hospital on Tuesday, with Holy Trinity paying tribute to him on social media.
“The Holy Trinity ABC are deeply saddened to learn of the death of our former coach and great friend, Liam Burns, and extend sincere sympathy to his family and friends,” a post on Facebook reads.
“The Riverdale man was a tireless worker for the Holy Trinity club, one of the selfless volunteer coaches who down the years have helped give so many kids the best possible start in the sport.
“Ill health curtailed Liam’s contribution in recent years but boxers and officials were delighted to see him back in the gym at the club’s 50th Anniversary celebrations. Always keen to hear how the lads were doing, Liam would often take a jaunt on his mobility scooter to the Fairdeal Garden Centre on the Andersonstown Road to talk all things boxing with Trinity coaches Michael Hawkins Snr and Michael Jnr.”
Michael Hawkins Snr added: ‘’Liam loved the boxing. He was very knowledgeable and supportive and did great work for us for many years.
‘’On a personal level, Liam was always a sound guy, helpful and very caring about people. I will miss him, we all will, miss his conversations and the craic.
“Rest easy, Liam.’’
Liam’s funeral mass will take place at St Michael the Archangel Church, Finaghy Road North on Friday, January 16 at 1pm.