Mourners gathered in Limerick today for the funeral of a murdered father described as a “loving father and unique individual”.
Martin Purcell (54), who was originally from Fairgreen in Limerick, died after he was stabbed a number of times at the flat where he lived alone on Wickham Street in the city centre.
A 32-year-old man is in custody charged with the murder.
At the funeral mass in St Brigid’s Church in Fairgreen, Fr Eamon Purcell said the murder victim’s family including his son Barry and daughter Amy were struggling to come to terms with the tragic circumstances of their father’s death.
Referring to the death of Martin Purcell’s brother, Leonard, in May, Fr Purcell said it was the second time in six months that members of the Purcell family had gathered in the church for such a “sad occasion”.
He told the congregation that Martin Purcell was a “unique individual” who had influenced people’s lives in many ways.
The priest described the former Eircom worker as a “loving father and a great parent” and said he lived his life to enjoy the company of “family, friends and neighbours.”
He said he was a sports fan and that he loved outdoor activities and music.
“Martin had much more to give in life but all expectations for the future have been cruelly cut short” Fr Purcell said.
Among the mourners at the funeral was Limerick publican Steve Collins, whose son Roy was murdered more than two years ago, and who personally knew Mr Purcell.
“I knew Martin very well, he was a customer of mine for years and he was a popular man and a member of the community and it is shocking to see how it has ended up,” he said adding that his thoughts were with the Purcell family.
“I can understand what the family are going through because of my own circumstances and it is just shocking that this has visited their doors and I am just very upset for the family” he said.
A large crowd attended today’s funeral mass including a number of local councillors.
A simple floral wreath was placed on top of the coffin throughout the funeral mass, which was concelebrated by Fr David Gibson PP.
In his homily, Fr Purcell said the death of Martin Purcell had shocked the entire community.
“Tragedy will always stun us because it is so unexpected and especially for Martin’s family and for this community because we are greatly aware of the tragic circumstances of Martin’s death,” he said.
“The death of any of us is an inescapable reality of life but where the time of our death and the circumstances of it can be never be predicted and Martin’s family are struggling to come to terms with his death”.
Fr Purcell said the murder of Martin Purcell was especially difficult for members of his family.
“Martin’s family are devastated in their grief and naturally have many questions but so few answers. Losing someone so close as a brother and a dear friend has compounded their numbness and confusion,” he told the congregation.
Mr Purcell was laid to rest at Mount Saint Lawrence cemetery.