Our community has lost a truly special soul.

Many will remember Dennis as the gentle man in the wheelchair who was often seen around the square. Before ill health changed his life, he was a proud fisherman who loved the sea. He never lost his warm smile, his quick wit, or his kindness. He also had a special love for animals—especially the local cats, who always seemed to know they had found a friend.

I first met Dennis after our beloved cat passed away. Our local vet put us in touch with him, as he was fostering two young sibling kittens looking for a home. We adopted them, and through that connection we came to know Dennis and were lucky enough to call him our friend.

Dennis passed away suddenly, leaving his family facing the heartbreak of saying goodbye far sooner than they ever expected. With their blessing, we are raising funds to help ease the financial burden of his funeral and to help make it possible for his son to travel from Iceland to West Cork to say a final goodbye to his father. No family should have to miss that opportunity because of financial hardship.

Dennis was a familiar and much-loved face in our community. Whether you stopped to chat, shared a laugh, or simply exchanged a smile as you passed him in the square, you were one of the many people whose lives he touched.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will help support Dennis's family during this incredibly difficult time. If you're unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much.

If more money is raised than is needed for the funeral, travel, and related expenses, any remaining funds will be given directly to Dennis's family. They may choose to use the funds for any additional costs arising from his passing or, if they wish, donate any unused amount in Dennis's memory to help care for the animals he loved so dearly.

Thank you for your kindness, compassion, and generosity. Together, we can give Dennis the farewell he deserves and help bring his son here to say goodbye.

Rest peacefully, Dennis. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten.