Tributes have flooded in following the death of a six-year-old schoolboy from Co. Carlow.
Patrick Iovan tragically died in his home following a long battle with cancer.
Patrick, a senior infants pupil at St Joseph's National School in Carlow, was diagnosed with a brainstem glioma, an aggressive form of cancer that affects young children aged between five and 10.
A fundraiser had been set up for Patrick's family to help them throughout his treatment had previously raised nearly €25,000.
A notice on RIP.ie reads: "Patrick Iovan, passed away, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on Saturday 1st May, 2021, at his home.
"Beloved son of Florin and Ramona, much loved brother of Patricia
"He will be sadly missed by his heartbroken parents and sister, grandparents, godparents, aunties, uncles, cousins and his many friends.
"Due to government advice regarding public gatherings a private funeral will take place for family in The Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow, on Monday at 11am and will be followed by burial in St Mary’s Cemetery, Carlow.
"If neighbours and friends wish to show their support to the family, they could stand at his school, St Joseph’s National School, St Joseph's Road (while adhering to social distancing guidelines) as the funeral cortége leaves his residence (via St Joseph’s National School) on the way to the church at 10.30 am."
"Family flowers only, donations can be made to LauraLynn – Ireland Children’s Hospice."
Announcing the news, O'Hanrahans GAA club, where Patrick played, said: "It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we must share the heartbreaking news that our own Patrick Iovan passed away peacefully with his family this morning.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents Florin and Ramona and his big sister Patricia. He will be sadly missed by our club members and his teammates on our U7 team. May he rest in peace."
A tribute posted to St Joseph's School's Facebook page added: "Today is a very sad day for St. Joseph's NS with the untimely passing of one of our senior infant pupils, Patrick Iovan. We extend our sincere condolences to Ramona, Florin and Patricia and also to Patrick's classmates, friends and family.
"Patrick was energetic, full of fun and a loving child and he has left a lasting impression in our school. His lovely smile lifted our spirits. He bore his recent illness with great courage. Níl sé imithe uainn ach romhainn."
