The funeral for a Roscommon brother and sister who died in a drowning tragedy has been told their special bond will endure beyond their tragic passing.
A joint funeral mass was held at St John's church in Lecarrow today for Dessie Byrne and his sister Muriel Erikson who died following a swimming accident in Ballybunion last week.
Friends and family of the late Dessie Byrne and Muriel Erickson packed into St. John's Church in Lecarrow this afternoon to pay their final respects to the brother and sister following their tragic deaths last week.
Father Ray Milton chief celebrant said the siblings were united in life and now too in death.
''Our goodbyes are not forever, but rather, until we meet again. Dessie and Muriel - you looked after each other in life, may you now be united in the place of rest and peace, prepared by God over the rainbow.''
Gifts brought to the altar to symbolise Dessie and Muriel's life included a photo of Dessie's son's confirmation, as well as a picture of Muriel's grandson Noah and the vintage car and cycling jersey to represent their interests and devotion to their families.
Keith Byrne described Dessie as a man who was a very talented tradesman, and was always willing to give a hand with any community project.
''He was always regarded as an excellent tradesmen, coworker and friend. He always left a lasting impact on every completed job. His favourite saying - tell me this, was used frequently throughout the day. Anyone who knew Dessie will remember his willingness to help others, his love of family and community.''
During the mass the rescue services in Ballybunion were also thanked for their quick response to the tragedy last week.
Muriel's son John also paid tribute to his mother, who was married and living in Malmo in Sweden, but retained a strong link to her home in Baylough, Athlone.
In his eulogy, he read a letter from his son to his grandmother.
''I am going to miss you. I love you. We will see each other again in heaven when I'm old. You're the world's best farmer. I love you so much that I nearly die. You are the best I have ever seen. I love you.''
Dessie's son Dean also paid tribute to his father in an emotional eulogy, where he outlined how his father had told him that if he ever died, the family could always count on the support and love of the extended family to help them through their grief.
''He always told me that if he passes, I won't be alone. He told me that Billy and James along with many others will be here for us along with the whole Byrne family. And from the second the news broke about him and Muriel. He was like on many other occasions proven right. I was waiting for him to call on the phone and say didn't I told you or what did I say.''
Following the funeral mass Dessie was laid to rest at the adjoining cemetery in Lecarrow and Muriel will be cremated tomorrow in Cavan.
