Heartbreak as ‘type’ Irish dad, 47 dies on household vacation as tributes pour in
Gary Croke, 47, was visiting friends in Brighton when he passed away suddenly – now tributes have been paid to the much-loved dad who was well known in the football community
Heartfelt tributes have poured in for a father-of-two who “made every moment brighter” after he died during a family holiday. Gary Croke was visiting friends in Brighton with his wife Alysia and their two children, ahead of planned Thanksgiving celebrations in Ireland when the 47-year-old suddenly passed away on November 24.
Originally from Waterford City, Gary worked as a supervisor for Jefferson Lab in Virginia, USA. He was a well-known figure in the local football community, not just as a youth coach but also as an active player in several adult leagues. His untimely death has left those who knew him in shock, with loved ones describing the loss as “unthinkable” and “devastating.”, reports the Irish Mirror.
With the family far from their US home at the time of Gary’s passing, they now face significant emotional and financial challenges, according to organisers of a fundraiser.
A Go Fund Me campaign titled ‘Support for Gary’s family after tragic loss’ has been set up, which has so far raised over €28,000 ($32,500). The funds aim to “relieve some of the financial burdens that will allow Alysia to focus on ensuring stability and support for Molly and Patrick as they continue their education and adjust to life without their father,” wrote the appeal’s organisers.
The page states that alleviating the financial strain is one of the most significant ways friends and neighbours can pay tribute to Gary.
“Gary was cherished by so many,” it said. “Supporting his family now is the best way we can reflect the love and generosity he shared with everyone around him.”
Meanwhile, tributes have been pouring in for Gary, with one mourner writing: “Rest in peace sweet, kind and gentle Gary, sincere condolences to the family,” while another noted: “Unilaterally admitted and loved at Jefferson Lab.
“As a colleague it was always a pleasure to work with Gary. His dedication, humour and hard work made it a pleasure to work with Gary, not to mention the Irish accent. He was only my supervisor for a short time, but he handled it with grace, patience and leadership. He will be sorely missed.”
Another added: “Gary was such an amazing young man, taken way too soon. May his gentle and loving soul rest in peace,” while another paid their respects and wrote: “A friendly gentleman with a warm heart and always full of craic – he made every moment brighter.”
The obituary for Gary on RIP.ie reads: “sadly missed by heartbroken and loving wife Alysia, son Patrick, daughter Molly, parents Paul and Helen, brothers Paul and Neil, sister-in-law Amy, nephews Justin and Brandon, nieces Sophie and Evie, aunt Patricka Keogh, friends Gavin and Diane Fitzgerald, extended Croke, Keogh and Orrel families, Gary’s wide circle of friends here in Ireland, USA and UK.”
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