A DONEGAL father who tragically drowned at the weekend will be laid to rest later this week.
Michael Gill, a dad of two in his 60s, was pronounced dead at the scene of an attempted water rescue on Saturday afternoon.
The man was taken from water in Inishowen and attempts were made to resuscitate him after he was spotted by passers-by.
Members of the public took Mr Gill from the water in a bid to save his life.
Sources told the Donegal News they “did everything they could at the scene”.
Funeral arrangements were confirmed today.
The late Michael Gill.
The undertaker’s notice stated: “The sudden death has taken place of Michael Gill, Claremont Manse, Derry, and Castle Avenue, Buncrana.
“Adored father of Anthony and Mary, sadly missed by their mother Sarah Gill, much loved darling son of Geraldine and the late Tony Gill.
“Beloved big brother to Anne, Brigid, and Maureen and his infant brother James, who died in 1971.
“Lovingly remembered by nieces and nephews, wider family circle, and friends.
“Michael’s remains will repose at Castle Avenue in Buncrana, where everyone is welcome to pay their respects on Monday, September 7, from 6pm and on Tuesday from 11am.
“Requiem Mass is on Wednesday, September 9, at 10 am in St Mary’s Oratory, with burial in Cockhill graveyard.”
The emergency services, including the gardai, the National Ambulance Service, the Fire Service and the Lough Swilly RNLI attended Michael’s aid last Saturday.
But, tragically, he was pronounced dead at Ned’s Point, pictured, near Buncrana shortly after 2.30pm, according to gardai.
His remains were taken to Letterkenny University Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
A Garda spokesperson said: “An adult male (aged in his 60s) was taken from the water and was subsequently pronounced deceased.”
The community in Inishowen was “deeply saddened” by the tragedy, revealed a Donegal County councillor in Inishowen.
Cllr Jack Murray said: “The community is deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of a man at Ned’s Point yesterday.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and loved ones at what must be an unimaginably difficult time.
“This is a terrible tragedy for our community.”