Crime & Law

Mother of Dean Fitzpatrick unable to attend son’s funeral

Audrey Fitzpatrick became unwell last night after attending removal

Christopher Fitzpatrick carries his grandson Leon to his son’s funeral at the Church of the Holy Trinity, Donaghmede, followed by Dean’s partner Sarah O’Rourke. Photograph: Cyril Byrne/The Irish Times
Christopher Fitzpatrick carries his grandson Leon to his son’s funeral at the Church of the Holy Trinity, Donaghmede, followed by Dean’s partner Sarah O’Rourke. Photograph: Cyril Byrne/The Irish Times
Jason Kennedy
Tue Jun 04 2013 - 11:00

The mother of stabbing victim Dean Fitzpatrick was unable to attend his funeral this morning due to illness.

Audrey Fitzpatrick became unwell last night after attending her son's removal at the Church of the Holy Trinity, Donaghmede, north Dublin.

Dean Fitzpatrick, a 23-year-old father of one, was stabbed to death at an apartment in Northern Cross, Malahide Road, north Dublin, last Saturday week.

Audrey Fitzpatrick pictured arriving at the Four Courts for a High Court hearing on burial arrangements for her son Dean. Photograph: Collins Courts
Audrey Fitzpatrick pictured arriving at the Four Courts for a High Court hearing on burial arrangements for her son Dean. Photograph: Collins Courts

Fr Eoin McCrystal told the funeral Mass Mr Fitzpatrick’s death caused “devastation” to his family and friends.

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“He was a young man with so much of life ahead of him,” he said during his homily. “Speaking with his loved ones, they have told me of the fact that Dean was a proud father of Leon and doted on him. Dean was a young man with plenty of life in him so it is only natural that there are so many broken hearts in this church this morning.”

A number of items of importance to Mr Fitzpatrick were placed on his coffin by friends and family, including his baseball cap, a miniature bicycle, headphones and a cross.

Fr McCrystal said Dean's sister Amy, who disappeared in Spain at age 15 in 2008, was also "very much in our prayers today".

Tribute paid

One of Dean's closest friends, Kevin Harris, paid tribute to his friend towards the end of the funeral Mass, saying he was a loving father, son, brother and friend.

“He was a lovely young man and a great friend to all of us. Words can’t describe how much you’ll be missed,” he said.

“Until we meet again, rest in peace, Deano.”

Mr Fitzpatrick was buried in Fingal cemetery afterwards.

A dispute over the funeral arrangements had arisen between his separated parents. The High Court last week released his remains to his partner.

Dean Fitzpatrick's stepfather Dave Mahon did not attend the removal Mass yesterday evening.

Amy and Dean Fitzpatrick had gone to live in Spain with their mother and Mr Mahon four years before Amy’s disappearance.

About a year after his sister disappeared, Dean Fitzpatrick returned to Ireland to live with his father. His mother and Mr Mahon continued to live in Spain until about 18 months ago.