Tributes are being paid to a popular young Derry man who has died suddenly in New York.
Patrick Friel Curan.
Patrick Friel Curran (23) had been living in the Brooklyn area of the “Big Apple” where he had only moved a couple of months ago
A former pupil of St Joseph’s Boys School, Patrick was well known as a barman in the city having worked in a number of restaurants including Fitzroys and Quay West. He was also a talented long-distance runner.
Patrick’s uncle, John Curran, said said the family’s hearts were broken by the “awful sad news” of the death of their nephew.
He added: “He was a fine young man in every way. The world has lost true gentleman.
John Storey, of Fitzroys, said he was “stunned” by the news of Patrick’s death.
He said: “We are numbed by this news. He was such a lovely person. Our sympathies go out to his family.”
Patrick ran and completed the Derry Marathon held in June this year. His coach, Billy Orr, of Foyle Valley Athletic Club, also paid tribute.
He said: “I met Paddy earlier this year and it was an absolute pleasure to coach him. He was a talented runner who was held in the highest regard by myself and everyone else at Foyle Valley Athletic Club.”
Numerous tributes are being posted on Patrick’s Facebook page.
Meanwhile, a number of fundraising events are to be held to help with the expense of bringing Patrick home.
Another fundraiser will be held in Pitchers Restaurant at the Foyle Golf Centre on Saturday, 5 October next. Tickets, priced £10, will be available shortly from the Bentley Bar and Restaurant, Fitzroys Restaurant, Quaywest Restaurant and Tinney’s Bar.
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