North Dublin has been left torn apart after the sad news that two young men who attended the same school died suddenly just days apart.
Tragic Gary McKenna and Reece Wilde, former pupils of St. Fergal's Boys National School in Finglas, will both be laid to rest today following the heartbreaking news of their untimely deaths.
The pair, both in their 20s, made their First Communion and confirmation together in 2003 and 2007 respectively.
St. Fergal's broke the tragic news on their Facebook page saying that they were "shocked and deeply saddened".
They said: "Gary was an excellent pupil with a bright future ahead of him.
"His Mam Maria was an active member of our Parent’s Committee during his time with us. His teachers Ms. McGing, Ms. Kelly, Ms. Flynn and Ms. Forristal remember him fondly.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to Gary’s family and friends at this tragic time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Gary rest in peace."
They continued: "Reece was a great boy with a big smile...He was always so happy-go-lucky. "
"We are just so stunned by these tragic events which happened only two days apart.
"We extend our deepest sympathies to Reece’s family & friends at this heartbreaking time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Reece rest in peace."
One heartbroken pal of Reece's added: "You were a sweetheart, you always had the banter when you served me in the shop. Hope you get the best bed in heaven and look down on your family and friends at this time, sleep safe."
Gary went missing on Sunday morning last at around 10am after being last seen in the Wellmount Area of Finglas.
Worried loved ones shared posts of Gary's description - who was wearing a orange t-shirt and black tracksuit bottoms and runners as seen in a picture attached to the post - when he went missing.
But sadly, their worst fears were confirmed when Gary's body was discovered in the afternoon after an extensive search.
A relative said: "Sadly Gary has been found. Thank you to everyone who shared this post and helped search for Gary."
As the sad news emerged, family and friends rallied together sharing memories of their beloved pal.
One said: "Can’t believe what I’ve heard. One of the nicest fellas to grace this place. RIP Gary. Thinking of all his friends, family and girlfriend at this time.
Another said: "Devastating news tonight of a young man who passed away, a pure sound lad and a friend of mine and a great friend of my son. Gary McKenna rest in peace."
A third said: "Rest in Peace Gary McKenna.
Can't believe it's real. Nicest lad you'd ever meet and always had a smile on his face. Thinking of his family and friends at this time."
