Hundreds of individuals came together in sorrow and quiet reflection today to bid farewell to Mark and Louise O’Connor as well as their son Evan, who tragically lost their lives in a brutal incident at their residence in Co Louth last week.
The lifeless bodies of Mark, aged 54, Louise, aged 56, and Evan, aged 27, who had special needs, were discovered last Monday at their dwelling near Tallanstown, where they met violent ends, as disclosed at the Drogheda District Court. The accused of their homicides is their son and sibling, Robert O’Connor, aged 31, from Drumgowna, Louth Village.
A collective Funeral Mass took place at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dundalk, led by Fr Gerry Campbell, parish administrator, accompanied by several other clergy members. Attendees were requested to wear mismatched socks in honor of one of Evan’s unique characteristics and to contribute to The Hub Praxis Care Drogheda and Drogheda ABACAS School, organizations that held significance for the family and represented their benevolence and community spirit.
The vehicles transporting the O’Connor family received a ceremonial escort from members of the North East Runners AC. Mark was described as a valued member of the local running club in Dundalk.
In a heartfelt address to the gathered crowd, the surviving son of the couple, Cian, delivered a moving tribute. He expressed, “No words can truly convey our emotions. I wish to commemorate the fulfilling lives my family led.”
Cian fondly recalled his mother as a wonderful individual, exuding love, warmth, and empathy. He shared that Louise had been planning a trip to Africa for her 60th birthday to assist elderly people in need and was eagerly looking forward to Cian and his fiancée Shauna’s forthcoming wedding.
He further reminisced about his father’s altruism, mentioning how Mark had sacrificed his career after Evan’s autism diagnosis to pursue further education and had formed strong bonds within the running community in Dundalk. Cian remarked, “Evan brought a spark of happiness, and his smile illuminated every room he entered.”
During the service, symbolic tributes were presented, including a pair of Nike running shoes representing Mark’s passion for running, a photo of Louise in her nurse attire symbolizing her dedication and compassion, and Evan’s vibrant odd socks and beloved Thomas the Tank Engine show signifying the joy and vibrancy he brought to life.
Fr Campbell, in his sermon, conveyed that news of the tragedy had reverberated across regions. He reflected on Mark’s selfless nature and Louise’s vivacious spirit, emphasizing their enduring love and devotion.
In memory of Evan, he highlighted the young man’s love for holidays, swimming, colorful socks, and bright apparel, underscoring his ability to bring light and joy to those around him.