Glowing tributes have been paid by people and groups from right across the county over the past week following the untimely passing of Killarney native Kevin Looney.
Kevin was just 30 years old at the time of his passing and, tragically, had only married the love of his life, Katie, in May of this year.
His funeral mass, which took place in the cathedral in Killarney on Friday morning, was both a sombre and colourful affair, with mourners having been encouraged to wear their brightest items of clothing, a tribute to Kevin’s unique fashion sense.
Kevin’s sister, Selina, spoke on behalf of the family and thanked everyone for the huge amount of love and support that they had received in the days since Kevin’s passing.
Paying tribute to her beloved little brother, she said that “there will never be enough words or pages or even time to tell the whole story of Kevin Looney - who he was, who he is to all of us, and who he had yet to become.”
“There was nothing little about Kevin’s personality. He was big, bright and bold, with a confidence that could command a room. He was so full of life, so ready to get involved in whatever was happening and he brought that energy with him everywhere with him,” she said.
Of all the titles that Kevin had in his life, Selina continued, be that of a son, a brother, a grandson, an uncle, or just a friend, she said that there was one that he cherished above all else - that of husband to his beloved Katie.
“Katie, he was so proud to be your husband. He often told us that you were the best thing that had ever happened to him. The love that you two shared was something that we all here could only dream of,” Selina said.
As she fought back tears, Selina concluded by saying that Kevin lived life unapologetically on his own terms and in his own way.
“You will never be forgotten,” she said.
As news of his untimely passing spread, local groups such as Killarney Celtic and the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club also paid tribute to Kevin.
“Kevin was a larger-than-life, colourful character who brought fun, joy and laughter wherever he went. His wonderful contribution to Killarney Celtic Football for All, and the happiness he brought to the many children he coached over the years, will never be forgotten,” said Killarney Celtic.
“On behalf of all Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club athletes and volunteers, we were deeply saddened at the passing of Kevin Looney. Kevin was involved with our club for many years and was a familiar and valued member of our Special Olympics community,” said the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club.
Tricel in Killarney, where he worked, also remembered Kevin fondly.
“Kevin was a valued member of our Manufacturing team. He brought warmth, character, and a unique spirit to the workplace, living life in full colour and leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.”
© Kerryman