Irish Strongman champion Patrick ‘Pa’ O’Dwyer, who was known as the ‘Limerick Lion’, has died at the age of 40
Pa O’Dwyer has passed away at the age of 40, leaving three children behind (Image: GoFundMe)
Devastating tributes have flooded in after the shocking death of Irish Strongman champion, Patrick ‘Pa’ O’Dwyer, at just 40 years old.
O’Dwyer, hailing from Co Limerick, claimed the Ireland’s Strongest Man title on five separate occasions. In 2018, he made history as the first Irishman in two decades to capture the U.K.’s Strongest Man crown.
Raised on a farm in Rathkeale, the “Limerick Lion” spent his early twenties working on road crews before discovering his passion for weightlifting. He rose through the ranks to become one of Europe’s premier strongmen, securing the U.K.’s Strongest Man championship in 2018, reports the Irish Mirror.
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The father of three later built a massive social media following by posting heartfelt videos, frequently offering support to those battling mental health challenges.
O’Dwyer’s death was announced by Giants Live, who shared a moving tribute to the beloved competitor.
O’Dwyer’s friend has started a GoFundMe page to pay tribute to the late strongman and help his family through this hard time (Image: GoFundMe)
“Pa was a true strongman but an even greater human being and, without doubt, one of the funniest, most unforgettable characters the world has ever known,” they said in a statement shared on their website.
“He brought strength, laughter and warmth wherever he went and truly was one of life’s larger-than-life personalities. Anyone who met him will surely have a story to tell.”
“He earned many titles, but the one he cherished most was simply ‘Dad.’ Pa leaves behind his three beautiful children – Sienna, Rocco, and Freddy – and his partner Layna. He loved them more than life itself, as he would always say.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, his friends, and everyone who loved him.”
In 2018, O’Dwyer made history as the first Irishman in two decades to capture the U.K.’s Strongest Man crown
Pa O’Dwyer has passed away at 40 years old
Former Strongman competitor Eddie Hall joined the chorus of those honoring O’Dwyer’s memory, with the weightlifting champion expressing he was “absolutely devastated” upon hearing news of the Irishman’s passing.
“Absolutely Devastated to hear about the passing of Pa O’Dwyer,” Hall wrote in a post shared on his Instagram account.
Hall has established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with expenses related to memorial services and to provide support for O’Dwyer’s family during the difficult times that lie ahead.
A statement posted on the fundraising platform reads: “Hi, I’m Eddie Hall and I’m fundraising for Pa O’Dwyer because he deserves to be paid back for all he has given us in this world.”
“He’s made us all laugh. He’s made all think. He’s made us all better people in some way through his bigger than life character.”
O’Dwyers friend has started a GoFundMe page to help Pa’s family
“This money is to help pay for his memorial service and to support his beautiful family during this difficult time.”
“Pa leaves behind three children and a whole family that loved and adored him and leaves a massive hole emotionally and practically… so let’s help out with the practical part as that’s all we can do right now.”
“Thank you so much for your help and showing that the strongman community is the best when tough times come upon us.
“Prayers and condolences to Pa and his beautiful family.”
The GoFundMe page has raised over $134,000 within 24 hours of being set up. Those who would like to donate to the fundraising campaign can visit the GoFundMe page here.