The late Conor Temple was 'full of love, laughter and simple joys'

The Requiem Mass of Conor Temple heard of a life “full of love, laughter and simple joys” and someone who “touched hearts with his kindness and his infectious smile”.

Conor was laid to rest at Drumboe cemetery following mass at the Church of Mary Immaculate, Stranorlar. The 13-year-old, from Cavan Lower, Killygordon, was the beloved son of Clare and Aidan, tragically lost his life in the River Finn on Thursday evening and was the much-loved brother of Aoibhin and Matthew, cherished grandson of Carmel and Laurence, and the late Bridget and Pat.

The Temple and McMenamin families were joined by members of the community in paying their respects.

“Together we share our grief, our memories, and we show support for one another,” Stranorlar curate Fr Vincent Finnegan OFM said.

“As we find ourselves just days away from Christmas, a season typically filled with joy and celebrations, our hearts feel the weight of grief even more acutely. We mourn the loss of one of our angels.

“When news of the tragedy broke, I prepared myself for the unknown. There was still so much unknown, except the fact that young Conor was gone. I met Aidan outside and after shaking hands, I just gave him a hug, and I think I gave everyone a hug after that, because no words from me were going to be heard.

“It was important because I learned later that Conor loved to give hugs, so it was instinctual in a house that had Conor to thank for expressing his love so openly.”

Gifts, symbols representing what Conor enjoyed in life, were taken to the altar by Ethan, Paul, Evan and Siobhan - a football with which he enjoyed endless hours of fun; a balloon like ones Conor loved to watch fly; a picture of Conor and his big sister Aoibhin; and a schoolbag.

“Where no words were necessary that night, today, though I have to say a few words," Fr Finnegan added. "Firstly, some words of appreciation for Conor and his 13 years of inspirational joy, which have been the centre of your family and also at the heart of this community.

“He loved the simple things in life - the hugs, the kissies and the tickles. There was a video online showing him being tickled in those last days - so beautiful to see. That was his favourite way to show love. He also had a sweet tooth and delighted in making Rice Krispies buns and like any young boy, he never said ‘no’ to the chocolate.

“Conor also loved going grocery shopping with his mum, Clare. He wasn't just there for the ride, he was a real helper, carefully putting the shopping into the trolley and then into the bags and the staff in Aldi knew him well. They always greeted him with kindness because they saw the joy that he brought every time he walked through the doors with Clare.

“He was Daddy's boy, too. Any chance he got, Conor would head out with Aidan to the farm. He was natural around the animals and had an affinity with them, especially the horses and those trips were special for Conor and also for Aidan - a beautiful way to bond and to share a common love.

“They had their own little routine, which often included baking and of course, the chocolate. Conor had a great sense of humour and a love for nature. He enjoyed walks in Drumboe woods with his mum, soaking in the beauty around him, and while he was Daddy's boy, he was also Mammy’s wee darling. He loved visiting Nanny Temple's house and sometimes all he had to say was ‘Temples’, and Aidan knew exactly what he meant. He also loved popping into Nanny and Granddad’s, where he just knew where to find a kiwi or a yoghurt when he was younger.

“Conor's life was full of love, laughter and simple joys. He touched hearts with his kindness and his infectious smile. He leaves behind memories that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him. At the Angels school, he had an amazing week up to the accident and was so affectionate and was living his best life.

“Conor's journey through life was colored by his unique perspective and he saw the world differently, often more vividly and purely than many of us do. He found fascination in the small details, in the rhythm of the river and in the whispers of the trees around him at Drumboe.

“These were not just places to him. They were extensions of his spirit and they gave him a sense of adventure and belonging. How we wish we could have saved him on that fateful day, just as countless parents instinctively strive to safeguard their children from harm.

“This protective instinct runs deep within us. In the face of danger, we rush in ready to save, eager to shield our loved ones from the world's unpredictability.

Fr Finnegan recalled at the family home on Friday, how Clare held Conor in the coffin as Aidan rubbed his forehead.

“Conor's spirit shines brightly and that spirit is eternally carried by the love of God and by each one of us,” Fr Finnegan added. “The juxtaposition of loss amidst the hopeful season of Christmas is painful. It's essential for us to remember that we do not walk this journey of grief alone. This is a moment for a community, where family, neighbours and friends come together to wrap our arms around one another in love. It's the unity of support, the simple acts of being present that bring the most comfort during our deepest sorrows

“When I first met Conor’s family, I offered hugs because I knew that in times of profound loss, sometimes no words are necessary. Just being there, holding one another in solidarity, speaks volumes of love and understanding. It is in these intimate moments that we begin to heal. Let us lean on one another for support and let God's comforting presence guide us through the dark days ahead. May Conor rest in the arms of the angels.”

David Chaney, on behalf of the Temple and McMenamin families, thanked everyone who was of assistance.

“We want to acknowledge the kindness, the compassion and support shown by the local community and the wider circle around us, over the past three days,” he said.

“We have felt your presence and it truly made a difference. We offer our heartfelt thanks to the emergency services, the gardaí, fire brigade, ambulance service, doctors, nurses and everyone who helped us to find Connor and tried so hard to save him.

“Your kindness, professionalism and care meant everything. We are deeply grateful to all the teachers, special needs assistants and everyone who cared for Conor over his 13 years.

“ We are eternally thankful. We particularly want to thank the staff at Ballymacool and Little Angels. Conor always look forward to his days at Ballymacool, where he was so happy and going to school at Little Angels.

“Finally, we ask you to keep us in your prayers, most especially in Aidan, Clare, Aoibhin and Matthew. We believe Conor is now with his Nanny and Grandad and it is now his turn to look after in heaven is his turn to luck after Aidan, Clare, Aoibhin and Matthew. Thank you.”