Limerick family fundraising to give back after tragic death in Canada
All funds raised will go to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust
THE FAMILY of a man who died in a road traffic incident in Canada are fundraising for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust who helped them to bring him home to Limerick.
On April 30, John Lyne from Woodlawn Park, Ballysimon Road, was driving on Highway 22 near Calgary when he tragically died.
There was a collision between John’s vehicle and another vehicle, in which an older woman died and a male passenger suffered serious injuries.
John, a skilled carpenter, moved to Canada ten years ago, but always thought of Limerick as home and remained in close contact with his friends and family.
He had been working for PCL Construction in Sparwood, Canada.
His family are now more than halfway to their fundraising target of €15,000.
In their plea for support on the GoFundMe page, John’s family said: “We now understand more than ever the profound pain of losing a child. To any parent facing this unimaginable loss, our hearts ache with you.
“John's absence leaves a gigantic void in our lives. We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of John's close friends who have been a source of strength during this incredibly difficult time. Also to PCL construction and their employees who have supported the family from the very beginning.”
They said that they will forever be grateful to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, who within 24 hours of being contacted by the Lyne family, had put them in touch with an international funeral director and began the process of bringing John home.
The family said: “Their compassion and the incredible network they've built allowed us to focus on grieving John's loss without the overwhelming burden of repatriation. This trust is a true testament to Kevin's memory and the unfaltering spirit of his parents.
“While the loss of John has left us in despair, the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust gave us a spark of hope, when we needed it most. They helped us navigate the darkest waters of grief, and we are eternally grateful.
“John travelled lots and had such a zest for life and genuine connection with people from all over the world. His last flight, AC800 from Toronto to Dublin Ireland, would not have been possible without Colin, Eithne, and the trust.
“We pray that no family ever experiences such a loss. But knowing that people like this exist to support others in their darkest hour makes the world a little brighter,” the family said.
They are now asking people to support the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust through their GoFundMe appeal.