TRIBUTES have been paid to a University of Limerick (UL) student whose body was found at a premises in Castletroy on Wednesday morning.
19-year-old Ronan Moran, from Drumshanbo, Leitrim, was a first-year Education in Graphics, Engineering, and Technology student at UL.
As investigations into his death continue, a Garda spokesperson said they didn’t believe foul play was involved and a file is being prepared for the Limerick City Coroner.
In an email to staff and students at the university, UL President Professor Kerstin Mey described him as “a valued member of our University of Limerick community”.
“Our sympathies go out to all of Ronan’s classmates and lecturers, to his housemates, friends, and fellow UL students and the many others who will be devastated by his loss,” her statement added.
Professor May asked staff and students to keep Ronan’s family in their thoughts, especially his parents John and Geraldine and brothers Kevin and Fergal.
Among the many online tributes was one from the Allen Gaels GAA Club, for whom Ronan played full back, which read: “Our community were devastated to hear of the passing of our beloved club player Ronan Moran. We offer our heartfelt sympathies to Ronan’s loved ones and we will do everything we can to support them in the very difficult days ahead.”
Gibbons Centra, Drumshanbo, where Ronan worked, also extended sympathy to the young student’s family, adding: “It’s hard to believe that the brightest of smiles has brought about the darkest of days. Ronan was a valued member of staff over the past six years and a huge presence in the community of Drumshanbo”.
The Tony McGowan Run, an annual half-marathon and 10k road race held in Drumshanbo, has been postponed as a mark of respect to Ronan and his family.
Ronan is survived by parents John and Geraldine, brothers Kevin and Fergal, his girlfriend Kaitlyn, aunts and uncles Abina, Niall, and Joe, and his wide extended family and circle of friends.
His body will be reposing at his home this morning (Friday) and Saturday from 2pm to 8pm. Funeral Mass will be held in St Patrick’s Church, Drumshanbo, at 1pm on Sunday with burial immediately afterwards in Drumshanbo New Cemetery.
