Tributes paid to late Dara O’Malley-Daly of Ballyshannon

There has been a huge outpouring of sadness following the death of Dara O’Malley-Daly.

Dara passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, surrounded by his loving family, following a short illness.

A tribute from Malin Head Coast Guard Station reads: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news that our friend and colleague Dara O'Malley-Daly, Station Officer at MRSC Malin Head has passed away, after a short illness. 

“Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time. He will be sorely missed by us all.”

“Ar dheis Dè a raibh a anam.”

Members of the Search and Rescue (SAR) services from near and far added their condolences. 

The team at Rescue 118 said: “On behalf of the crews of Rescue 118, we wish to express our condolences to Dara's family, friends and colleagues in the Irish Coast Guard. May he rest in peace.

And the crew at Lough Swilly RNLI said: “Everyone at Lough Swilly RNLI is deeply saddened at the passing of Dara O'Malley-Daly, Station Officer at MRSC Malin Head.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and his colleagues at Malin Head Coast Guard at this sad time.

“May he rest in eternal peace.”

Closer to home, Dara was at the heart of swimming and surf activities in his native Ballyshannon and the wider area.

A spokesperson for Rossnowlagh Surf Club spoke of Dara’s commitment to the sport as a dedicated surfer and volunteer in Irish Surfing.

“Dara’s passion for surfing and contribution to Irish Surfing was immense,” said the spokesperson.

“He was our Safety Officer, a former Instructor Developer Tutor, former Secretary and Chairman of Irish Surfing and many other roles.

“As Chairman, he launched Eurosurf Bundoran ‘11 and led the event organising committee.

“Dara rarely missed the Intercounties, a member of the infamous Donegal Z team with Kevin Mc Closkey, Dodo Mc Loughlin and Kevin Tobin.

“At any time, I could pick up the phone to Dara and get the most professional advice. 

“I will miss the many calls and meetings; and his unwavering support for safety in our sport but most of all I will miss a good friend.”

Ballyshannon Leisure Centre added to the tributes, with a spokesperson saying: “Caroline, Management, Staff and Customers are so sorry to hear the devastating news of the passing of Dara O’Malley Daly. 

“He will be so missed in the Leisure Centre and our condolences go out to all his family.”

Dara was one of the organisers of the annual Creevy Bay swim on Christmas Day, an event which raised money for local charities. 

He will be remembered by many as a good and kind man, generous of his time and energy. 

Dara’s remains are reposing at his home Abbeylands, Ballyshannon, F94T3P9 until 7pm on Sunday, September 1.

Celebratory Mass takes place at St Patrick’s Church, Ballyshannon, on Monday ,September 2 at 11am, followed by burial afterwards at the Abbey cemetery, Ballyshannon. The Mass can be viewed live on www.churchservices.tv/stpatricksballyshannon

Family flowers only please; donations in memory of Dara to The North West Hospice, The Mall, Sligo care of donation box at Family Home/Church or Breslin's Funeral Home.