Irish community in 'disbelief and shock' after the…

Irish community in 'disbelief and shock' after the tragic death of 'true gentleman and role model'

An Irish community have been left in “disbelief and shock” after the tragic death of “true gentleman and role model” Brendan Teahan.

The 53-year-old sadly passed away after he fell from a boat while helping collect buoys after the Cromane Regatta in Kerry on Sunday night.

Gardai and emergency services rushed to the Bay at around 10pm after he fell from a vessel, but, despite best efforts, Brendan was pronounced dead at the scene.

Tributes have been paid as the local community comes to terms with the sudden passing.

Offering up their sympathies to Brendan's family Cromane Rowing Club said in a Facebook post: “It is with the greatest sadness, disbelief and shock that we share the devastating news of the untimely passing of Brendan Teahan.

"Beloved husband of Mary B and brother to Joan, Kay, Marie and Bernie.

“Brendan was a Cromane man true and true, although he did stray across the pond for a few years, homesick for his lovely seaside village he returned home.

“The draw of the ocean was a temptation that could not be ignored. The youngest child of Bridie and Johnny Teahan and the apple of his mother’s eye.

“Brendan started his fishing career with his dad, dredging for mussels and salmon fishing. Trades passed down from generation to generation. And they didn’t have the big fancy equipment that they have now. Small fishing boats where used, where the brawn of the man was needed to haul in the nets.

“In 1992, Brendan put this strength to the test and started his illustrious rowing career, head of the 5th oar in the majestic Emerald Seine Boat. This was the year that he and the crew won the coveted Johnny Mahony Trophy under the watchful steer of Monty O Neill.

“Brendan continued to row through the 90’s and eventually moved into the coxing of crews. A role that was relished, not only by himself but also by the crews he taught. A man that our younger members looked up to and who would hang on every word he said. He made time for everyone in his busy schedule. A grafter and a gentleman of the highest order. No job was too small, and he would never see you “stuck”.

“A devoted club member, he worked tiredlessly behind the scenes to ensure the grounds were kept well, that the equipment was in good working order, that the boats were race ready and would tow the boats to all the regattas.

“For our own annual regatta he was the man with the waders on and who never came off the water, helping boats and crews in and out as the event progressed.

“When his football career with Cromane GAA came to a close, he took up darts. A sport which he excelled at – winning town league and four asides in Killorglin and Cahirciveen.

“1993 was a year of many changes for Brendan. He, along with other family members set up Teahan Partners. And then he entered a different partnership when he met his beautiful wife Mary B at a regatta in Dingle and they have continued to be a united, tenacious, fun loving, hard-working and devoted couple ever since. Mary B was the ying to Brendan’s yang and soulmates through and through.

“Brendan was a gentleman. Someone who did not have a cross word to say about anyone. He was not averse to a little bit of schemery but he always had your best interests at heart.

“A Gentle gentleman, a loving husband, brother, uncle, neighbour and friend. His presence, wit, quiet, unassuming character will be truly missed in our small seaside community and further afield. Rest easy our gentle giant.”

Irish Drain Services also paid tribute, saying: “It is with the greatest sadness, disbelief and shock that we share the devastating news of the untimely passing of our dear friend Brendan Teahan.

“Beloved husband of Mary B and brother to Joan, Kay, Marie and Bernie.

“Brendan was a true gentleman no job was too big or small when he helped us out down through the years here at Irish drains Services.

“A hard working Fisherman. A devoted club member at Cromane Rowing club, he worked tiredlessly behind the scenes. His presence, wit, quiet, unassuming character will be truly missed by his family, neighbours & many friend.