Tributes paid to ‘lovely gentleman’ (64) found dead on Tipperary farm

Sean Ryan

Authorities are investigating the sudden death of a man in his 60s who was discovered on a farm near Ardfinnan in South Tipperary on Tuesday morning.

Emergency services were called to the scene around 11:30am, where the man was pronounced dead.

He has been named locally as Mathew ‘Mattie’ O’Brien (64) who was originally from Golden in Co Tipperary but who had been living with his partner at The Cross, Ardfinnan for a number of years.

His remains have since been taken to University Hospital Waterford for a post-mortem examination, which will help determine the direction of the ongoing Garda investigation.

Paying tribute one local said ‘’Sincere condolences to all the O Brien families on the passing of Mattie. He was such a lovely man’."

Another said: "Deepest condolences to mattie family and his partner on unexpectedly death of mattie we miss him slang in the pub Saturday night and joking and banter may lord find comfort for family and friends he left behind and find refuge in hour of need."

He is survived by his partner Catherine, brothers William, John, Dermot and Tom, sister Mary, Catherine's children Catriona, James and Joseph.

His remains will repose at Costigan's Funeral Home, Cahir on Friday evening from 6pm to 7:30pm. His requiem mass will take place on Saturday April 26th at 2:00pm in St. Mary's Church, Cahir followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) was notified and has begun its own inquiry into the incident. The local coroner has also been informed, and a report will be compiled for the Coroner’s Court.

According to gardaí, initial findings suggest no signs of foul play. One line of inquiry being pursued is that Mr O’Brien may have fallen from a roof he was working on.

A spokesperson for the HSA confirmed that an investigation is underway, but no further details are being released at this stage.