Family of David O’Callaghan appeal for people who are suffering “to talk to someone”
The late David O'Callaghan.
The family of 21-year-old David O’Callaghan, whose funeral service took place today, have appealed to young people who may be in a dark place or suffering to speak to someone, saying, “Ten days ago, David thought he was ending all his pain and suffering but the truth is that pain and suffering is now on every person in this room. If you ever have those feelings, just talk to someone.”
Mr O’Callaghan’s remains were discovered last Wednesday on the outskirts of Boyle after an extensive four day search when his family and friends became concerned about his welfare.
Originally from Dublin he had been living in Roosky at the time of his death.
At the funeral service held at Lakelands Crematorium a tribute by his father David stated “David was the most honest person I've ever known. He would do anything for anybody. He would take the shirt off his back and bend over backwards to help anybody. David was the glue that held his family together and we are all truly devastated that he felt he had to leave this world so young. If David could see us all today and see how much his family and friends truly loved him, he would have loved it. Today is where I let go of not only my son, but my best friend. Once he called me his hero without a cape, and in truth he was my hero. As a father, I was supposed to teach him things which I did, but he also taught me an awful lot too.”
He added, “I wish as every parent does, that a mom or dad goes before their child. One last thing to say to everybody here today is to talk to your family. Don't fight over stupid things, look out for signs that I never saw because it's a bad thing that a tragedy like this brings families together.”
A video of David’s life was also played at the ceremony.
David’s friends spoke of an “incredible person,” who “filled hearts with happiness,” adding “you couldn’t help but smile when he was around, he made a difference in people’s lives and left a mark on everyone he met.”
Another spoke of their time spent fishing saying that David was a steady presence in his life.
His siblings too spoke of their brother as someone “who lit up a room with a smile,” a phrase that was repeated by all those who addressed the large crowd in attendance and online.
“He leaves a void that cannot be filled,” his sister said.
A number of items were also presented to represent his life including a Manchester United jersey, with many of those in attendance also wearing the colour red in tribute to his love of the football club.
Fishing gear symbolising his love of making memories on the water, and a measuring symbolizing his love of DIY were presented. A family photo was also placed at his coffin.
His uncle William recalled David’s time growing up in Dublin and how he was there for his first steps and his first kick of a ball.
He concluded by saying, “If you're ever feeling down, just talk to someone. Ten days ago, David thought he was ending all his pain and the suffering,” adding “If you ever have those feelings, just talk to someone.”
Mr O’Callaghan is survived by his his mother Noeleen Thomas and father David O'Callaghan Snr, brothers and sisters Gavin, Megan, Cody, Zara, Milan, Kyah, Ben, Bradley, partner Leanne, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, along with extended family and friends.
