THE funeral of Peter Byrne who tragically drowned while swimming in the River Barrow will take place this weekend.
The 17-year-old got into difficulty in the water at Cloghristick, Milford, Co Carlow at about 6.30pm on Tuesday last.
Peter is believed to have been swimming with friends when he got into difficulty in the river in the Milford area of the county – around eight kilometres from Carlow town.
The teen, who had just finished Transition Year in the local CBS secondary school, and his pals were at a local gym earlier in the evening.
It’s believed that they then decided to go swimming.
And Peter’s friend saw him get into difficulty in the water and tried to help him.
The emergency services, including the ambulance, fire brigade and Garda Water Unit, were called to the scene.
But sadly his body was recovered at about 11.30pm.
His remains will be reposing in his home in Carlow town from 1pm this Sunday, followed by prayers at 8pm that evening.
Peter’s funeral mass will take place on Monday, June 23, at 10am at The Cathedral of the Assumption, followed by burial at St Mary’s Cemetery.
The tragic teenager was a player for New Oak FC over the last number of years.
And heartfelt tributes have been paid to the young player on social media by family, friends and local community.
New Oak FC wrote on Facebook: “It is with a very heavy and broken heart that we share the devastating news of the passing of our much beloved youths player Peter Byrne who tragically passed away this week.
“Peter was a pocket rocket in the team over the last number of years.
“Small in stature but big in personality. He was a huge character with a touch of Roy Keane about him, not afraid of anything or anyone.”
A notice from RIP.ie said: “He will be sadly missed by his loving parents, step-father, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives and friends.”
Paying tribute, one local said: “Rest easy Peter, it’s all going to be so different without you. I hope you have the best bed up there.”
‘KINDEST SOUL’
Someone else wrote: “Rest in peace Peter, you have always been so sound to me from play school to primary.
“And even when I’d see you in the vault playing pool going to the vault and not seeing you there with your friends is truly heartbreaking.
“You were the nicest chap ever, rest in peace Peter and look over your friends and family.”
A heartbroken friend added: “Peter was genuinely the kindest soul who would always manage to brighten anyone’s day with a simple hello.
“His ability to make everyone laugh and smile was truly precious.
“And everyone will always remember him for this.
“And of course for his cheeky smile, that will be engraved in everyone’s memory until we meet again,you are a true legend.
“The brightest smile in the town to the brightest star in the sky. I’ll miss you so much Peter.”
Tributes poured in for Peter[/caption]
