The tranquil riverside of Tralee, County Kerry, was shattered by the sudden passing of Reverend Michael Costelloe, C.C., of Kilcumin, in a heart-wrenching incident on Friday. The esteemed clergyman, well-known for his service and dedication, succumbed to a fatal heart attack while engaged in a leisurely pursuit along the banks of the River Flesk, near the Presbytery.
Witnesses to the tragic event, including Mr Geoffrey Fleming, recounted the harrowing moment when Rev. Costelloe, a native of Glin, County Limerick, collapsed unexpectedly during a salmon fishing excursion. Mr Fleming, who was accompanying the reverend at the time, described how Rev. Costelloe suddenly grasped his chest, uttered a brief exclamation, and then collapsed onto the riverbank. Despite immediate efforts to assist him, the reverend passed away within minutes, leaving a profound sense of shock and sorrow among those present.
The untimely demise of Rev. Michael Costelloe has cast a sombre veil over the close-knit community of Tralee, where he was deeply respected and cherished for his compassionate service and unwavering commitment to his parishioners. As news of his passing spreads, tributes and condolences pour in from far and wide, underscoring the profound impact he had on the lives of countless individuals.
Reverend Costelloe’s dedicated ministry spanned many years, during which he touched the hearts of many through his kindness, wisdom, and spiritual guidance. His loss is keenly felt not only within the parish of Kilcumin but across the entire region, where he was revered as a pillar of strength and source of solace.
In the wake of this tragic incident, the local community has rallied together to offer support and comfort to one another, drawing strength from cherished memories of Rev. Costelloe’s exemplary life and profound legacy. Funeral arrangements are underway as friends, parishioners, and colleagues prepare to bid a final farewell to a beloved figure who will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
As investigations into the circumstances surrounding Rev. Costelloe’s passing continue, authorities urge the public to respect the privacy of his grieving family and refrain from speculation. In this time of mourning, the focus remains on honouring the memory of a remarkable individual whose enduring spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him.
The loss of Rev. Michael Costelloe has left an indelible mark on the community of Tralee, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of others. As tributes flow in and preparations are made to lay him to rest, the legacy of his compassion, kindness, and unwavering faith will endure as a beacon of hope and comfort for generations to come.
Weekly Freeman’s Journal – Saturday 06 November 1915
