'Brave and selfless' man who died after going to the aid of children at Cork beach is laid to rest 

A man who died when he went to the aid of children who got in to difficulty in the water at Inch Beach, in Co Cork last Friday has been praised for his “heroism’ at his funeral mass.

Stephen O’Callaghan from Ashburton Hill, Montenotte in Cork ran in to the sea in an attempt to save a group of children at around 3pm last Friday. 

Four young people were rescued from the water. 

However, Mr O’Callaghan (55) got caught in a strong undercurrent and lost his life.

A requiem mass for Mr O’Callaghan, who was late of Irish Customs, took place at O’Connor Brothers Funeral Home in North Gate Bridge in Cork city today. 

It was a Tridentine mass, also known as the traditional Latin mass.

Fr Joseph Ortolano said that mourners had gathered to pray for the soul of a brave man.

“In this particular circumstance, we thank God for the example of manly courage and heroism that is given through Stephen’s actions on his last day. 

"His actions will forever remain as a mark of honour and esteem in the house O’Callaghan.”

At the conclusion of the mass a guard of honour was provided by Irish Customs. 

Burial followed at St Finbarr’s cemetery in Cork city.

The family of Mr O’Callaghan had requested donations to to the RNLI in lieu of flowers.

Meanwhile, a file has been sent to the coroner in Cork and an inquest will be held in due course. 

The search and rescue operation last Friday involved the coast guard units at Guileen and Crosshaven, along with the RNLI from Ballycotton and Crosshaven. 

Rescue Helicopter 117 from Waterford was also tasked to to go to Inch Beach.

Mr O’Callaghan is survived by his parents John and Kathleen and his siblings Katrina, Keith, Mary and Emmet. 

A large number of tributes were paid to Stephen on Rip.ie. 

He was described as “brave and selfless” and a “true hero.”