by Tommy Curran
THE sudden and unexpected death has taken place of Éamonn Coyle, Clarehall, Dublin and formerly of Lower Brinalack, Gaoth Dobhair. He will be remembered as a man of rare talent, quite generosity and enduring friendship whose presence enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A member of a well known family, he was born in Brinalack and was a son of Kathleen and the late Francie Coyle. He received his post primary education at Pobal Scoil Ghaoth Dobhair and was a talented footballer in his youth. He was on the Pobal Scoil football team which won the Donegal Vocational Senior Championship for the first time for the school in February, 1982.
He went to study in University of Ulster and he secured a Degree in Engineering and afterwards worked in Glasgow, London, Southampton, New York and Dublin. Highly regarded in his profession, he was known as a diligent, intelligent and dependable man, whose work ethic earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. He was awarded BSc with honours in Construction Management in 1999 and MSc in International Business in 2011. He worked on many projects including bridges, hospitals, roads and in 2011 he set up his own Consultancy Company, which was very successful.
REMARKABLE EYE
Yet it was outside of his professional life that his true passion shone most brightly. A hugely talented photographer, he possessed a remarkable eye for beauty, capturing the landscapes, light and life of Ireland in a way that resonated deeply with all who saw his work. He had been involved in photography since the time of the 33m Fuji film back in the 1980’s. He often said that the late Colm Phaidí Jimí McBride introduced him to photography.
He attended numerous photography courses with the Institute of Photography and was a qualified Drone Pilot. From the rugged coastlines of many counties in Ireland to the rural scenes, his photographs told stories without words. He had a great passion for wildlife and down through the years he captured stunning images. He also captured images of horse racing events, St Patrick’s Day Parade in the capital, Christmas scenes and last year’s Donegal International Rally. His images frequently featured in the national newspapers, Skipper, The Dublin Gazette, the RTÉ weather and other outlets.
He had a particular talent for capturing candid moments in 0’ Connell street in Dublin ranging from the homeless sleeping in doorways to faces of individuals.
Each year, his eagerly anticipated Irish calendar became a labour of love and a cherished items in homes near and far. Featuring a carefully a selection of his finest images, it was a celebration of Irelands natural beauty and a testament to his artistic gift. He kindly made a donation from the sale of the calendars to various charitable organisations including the Fr Peter McVerry Homeless Fund and to the St Vincent de Paul Society.
Éamonn was also a hugely talented journalist. He was known for his integrity, fairness and dedication to truth. In recent month he featured some of those from the county who spent years working underground and were known as the Tunnell Tigers. He approached every story with care and respect , earning the trust of those he interviewed. His writing was clear, thoughtful, and often carried a quiet compassion that reflected his own character.
GIFTS
Beyond his artistic gifts Éamonn was a truly good friend to many. He had a warm, easy manner that drew people to him. He was the sort of person who made time to others, who listened without judgement and who offered support without ever seeking anything in return.
His Requiem Mass was concelebrated at 1pm in St Colmcille Church, Cnoc Fola on Sunday with removal immediately afterwards for private cremation. The celebrant of the mass was Fr. Seán Ó Gallchóir and concelebrants were: Fr. Brian Ó Fearraigh, P.P. Fr. Nigel Ó Gallchóir, P.P., Fr. Brendan Ward, C.C., and an Sagart Pádraig Ó Baoighill.
He was predeceased by his father Francie and infant brother Mícheál. He is deeply mourned by his wife Gabriela, son Liam, mother Kathleen, sisters Máire, Deirdre, Mairéad and Brídín, brothers Pádraig, Gerry, Brian, Colm, Martin and Fran, nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family, and a wide circle of friends. Ní bheidh do leithéid ann aris.