Emotional tributes paid to Daniel O'Brien following tragic death - Kilkenny Live

Emotional tributes have been paid in recent days to Daniel O’Brien after his tragic death following a deep-sea diving accident in Norway last Thursday.

Daniel, a much-loved personality in his native Graignamanagh, managed to leave a lasting impact wherever he went.

The 33-year-old had served as member of the Air Corps, worked as an aviation engineer and was also a talented water sportsman who had even succeeded in rowing the whole way across the Atlantic Ocean.

Graignamanagh Rowing Club expressed deep sadness after learning of his death.

“Daniel joined the club in its infancy and had a lasting impact on the club and its members,” they stated.

“He was very highly regarded by the club, and he will be greatly missed. We extend our sincere condolences to Daniel’s family, loved ones, and friends.”

These sentiments were echoed by Graignamanagh Canoe Club, who stated that they were ‘very saddened to hear of Danny’s tragic passing’.

“Having the passion for water sports like kayaking and canoeing, he was always very encouraging to us here in our club,” the club stated.

“It’s a very sad day for the community of Graignamanagh and the wider paddling community.”

The Irish Canoe Federation Freestyle Committee described Danny as an experienced canoe freestyle judge with an exceptional eye for detail.

“Inside the judging booth Danny was serious and cared deeply about accurate judging as the sport progressed rapidly. Outside the booth he was always at the heart of things, having fun and enjoying every moment to the fullest,” they said.

Arabian Celts GAA Club in Bahrain also paid tribute to Danny, who left a lasting impression with the club.

“Although Danny was with us in Bahrain for a relatively short time, he made many friends and was a big presence amongst the Arabian Celts family with whom he made a lasting impression,” they stated.

“His sense of humour and eccentricity will not be forgotten.”

Danny is survived by his heartbroken parents, Pauline and Fiachra, brothers Tommy and Ciaran, partner Ingvill, grandmother Brigid, Pauline's partner Michael, Fiachra's partner Esther, sister-in-law Amy, aunts, uncles, cousins and a wide circle of friends and relations.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.