Book Of Condolance To Open In Shannon For Clare Victim Of Greek Wildfires

Photo © Blood Bike Dublin

A book of condolence is being opened in Shannon in tribute to a Clare man who lost his life in the Greek wildfires.

Tributes are pouring in for Brian O’Callaghan-Westropp, who was on honeymoon in the resort area of Mati, and went missing after becoming separated from his wife, less than a week after their wedding.

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A “vivacious character who touched everyone with a smile” – One of the tributes being paid to Clare man Brian O’Callaghan-Westropp, following his tragic death in Greece.

Brian, who’s originally from the Tradaree area of Shannon/Newmarket on Fergus, was on honeymoon in the resort area of Mati, and went missing after becoming separated from his wife while trying to flee the blazes.

His now widow Zoe Holohan, is recovering in hospital from burn injuries.

Their families have issued a statement saying they’re “deeply saddened” to confirm Brian’s death and have asked for privacy.

While, a fundraising page has since been set up in his memory.

Newmarket on Fergus Councillor Pat McMahon knew the family when they lived locally and says it’s an unspeakable situation.

Brian had been a student at the National College of Ireland since 2014 – In a statement the Dean School of Business has described Brian as smart, articulate and thoughtful, while never shy of offering an opinion.

Dr Colette Darcy says the fact that he volunteered, had a job and also went to college two evenings a week, gives you a sense of the man, and has added that the world is a sadder place without Brian in it.

Its the second time Brian’s family have been struck by an unspeakable tragedy. His only brother Colin lost his life in 1997 in a motorcycle accident, at the age of 21.

Before his death, Colin attended Athlone IT, when he and his family became great friends with Chaplain Fr Shay Casey.

Fr Shay spoke with Rosemary, their mother, before she made the heart-wrenching trip to Athens this week to identify her eldest son’s body. He’s described Brian as the kind of man who’s presence was felt every time he entered a room.

Shannon Parish has announced that a book of condolence for Brian and his family will open this weekend, to allow people pay their respects.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced but its expected that he’ll be laid to rest in his family’s home town of Killaloe.

May he rest in peace.