‘A giant of a man who would light up any room' – Heartbreaking tributes pour for ‘legendary' Irish musician after death
Bernard McNamara was one of
A notice from Bernard's family said: "Predeceased by his father Paddy, mother Helen and brother Anthony.
"He will be sadly missed by his heartbroken son Kenneth, daughters Micaela and Levi and by their mother Linda.Lovingly remembered always by his adored grandchildren Mia, Ethan, William, Nasya, Conor, Tuiren and Turlough, brothers Gerry and James and sister Mary, by his dearest, cherished friend Emily and all his nieces and nephews."
Tributes have poured in for Bernard as news of his death continues to spread, with mourners telling of the huge impact the "legendary" musician had on the city.
Galway city's Mayor, Mike Cubbard, described Bernard as a "giant of a man who would light up any room" and a talented musician.
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He said: "I have just heard of the sad passing of Bernard McNamara. A giant of a man who would light up any room, he will be missed by so many near and far.
"A top man in the community, a brilliant musician and a friend to so so many. Rest in Peace, Bernard."
Another mourner told how Bernard was a "born entertainer, brilliant musician and an all round nice guy" in a heartbreaking tribute.
A third added: "Bernard was a real gentleman. We had the pleasure of hosting him in Dubai with the Band Shout for the St Patrick's day ball a few years ago - one of the top events in Dubai at the time.
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"They were very well received and as a result the lads got gigs in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi.
"Bernard had a great skill of connecting with people, I guess the good Lords needs some of that entertainment from Bernard."
Another tribute read: "Bernard was a huge character. So talented vibrant and full of fun. One of life's gentlemen.
"He is a huge loss to the community in Westside. Sleep peacefully and rest in peace Bernard. RIP."
'A NEW STAR SHINING ABOVE'
A fifth said: "His passion for life and music left us all on a high. What an entertainer.
"His presence and lovely chats will be missed. Rest in peace now. A light has gone out in Galway but a new star is shining above."
Bernard's family has confirmed he will repose at the O'Flaherty Funeral Parlour on Munster Avenue from 4pm to 6:30pm on Friday.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated for Bernard at the Church of the Sacred Heart on Seamus Quirke Road at 11am on Saturday.
He will be laid to rest in Rahoon cemetery following the mass.
Mourners have been asked to approach the funeral parlour entrance on foot from Fr Burke Park.
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Galway musician Bernard McNamara sadly passed away on Monday
Credit: RIP
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