‘The Limerick Lion’ Pa O’Dwyer remembered as a “true strongman, an even better human”

Limerick Lion Pa O’Dwyer remembered as a “true strongman, an even better human”

Tributes have been paid following the passing of five-time Ireland’s Strongest Man and father of three, Limerick’s Pa O’Dwyer

Tributes have poured in following the tragic passing of 40-year-old ‘Limerick Lion’, Patrick (Pa) O’Dwyer, the five-time Ireland Strongest Man winner and father of three from Rathkeale, who sadly passed away suddenly on Saturday, January 3.

A father of three, a former firefighter, and one of the most recognisable figures in Irish strength sports, Pa achieved the incredible feat of winning the title of Ireland’s Strongest Man five times and winning the title of UK’s Strongest Man.

Pa also represented Ireland on the global stage at the World’s Strongest Man Competition. Beyond his impact on the Strongest Man stage, Pa became widely known for his presence on social media, where he shared motivational videos, as well as standing up for many people, earning the admiration of an audience of more than 650,000 people.

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Fellow Strong Man and friend, Eddie Hall, led tributes online for who he described as a “true strongman, an even better human”.

Eddie Hall said, “Absolutely Devastated to hear about the passing of Pa O’Dwyer. A true strongman, an even better human, and one of the funniest characters the world was ever blessed with.

“Pa brought strength, laughter and warmth wherever he went. He genuinely was one of life’s biggest characters and everyone who ever met him would have a story to tell I’m sure.

“UK’s & Irelands strongest man was one of many titles he held but his most important and his most proud title was ‘Dad’. Pa leaves behind 3 beautiful children’ Sienna, Rocco and Freddy and partner Layna for which he loved more than life itself he would always say.”

Following the news of his passing, Limerick Fire and Rescue services said, “All of us in Limerick Fire & Rescue are saddened to hear of the sudden passing of former Newcastle West Firefighter, Patrick (Pa) O’ Dwyer.”

SBD World’s Strongest Man paid tribute on social media, saying, “Absolutely devastated to hear about the passing of Pa O’Dwyer. A true strongman, an even better human and one of the funniest people with the greatest spirit. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the strongman community”

In the wake of his passing, Eddie set up a GoFundMe in Pa’s memory, which has seen more than €160,000 raised in two days.

People have used the opportunity to donate funds, which will help fund his memorial service and support his family, and to pay tribute to ‘The Limerick Lion’.

One message reads, “Thank you, Pa, for being an inspiration to so many people. You were strong as an ox in Body, Character and in Spirit. The strength community will grieve your passing for a long time, but we’ll honor your legacy too. Rest easy to the Limerick Lion.”

Another said, “What a tragic loss of a great human being. I was fortunate to meet him & he was a gentleman and a gentle man. No one has made me laugh as hard in my life. My thoughts are with his family. Thanks Pa for everything.”

The Irish Strength Association also paid tribute, saying, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Pa O’Dwyer this morning. Pa, also known as the Limerick Lion, became the second Irishman in history to win the UK’s Strongest Man.

“He was a legend in strength sports in Ireland, winning Ireland’s Strongest Man an unprecedented five times. He went on to represent his beloved Ireland in the World’s Strongest Man.

“Pa will be a massive loss to the strength community.Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, especially his partner Layna, daughter, and two sons, Sienna, Rocco, and youngest Freddy. RIP Pa O’Dwyer, the Limerick Lion.”

Pa will be Forever loved and deeply missed by his partner Layna, his children Sienna, Rocco & Freddy, his parents Lena & Seanie, his brothers & sisters Siobhan, Kris, Sean & Liam, grandparents Sean & Chris Kelly, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family, his many friends, team-mates, sponsors & all who were inspired by his kindness, humour & strength.

Funeral details have been announced for the Limerick man through RIP.ie, who will be reposing at his parents’ residence at Carrigkerry, Athea, Co. Limerick on Tuesday, January 6. Arriving at St Mary’s Church, Rathkeale, on Wednesday, January 7 for 11:30 requiem mass & burial afterwards in Monagea cemetery. The family have requested family flowers only, and donations to a charity of your choice.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.