'A true gentleman' - Tributes paid to Offaly man who died in road crash involving crane

Tributes have poured in for 43-year-old Offaly man Stephen Mooney who passed away following an early-morning road accident earlier this week. 

The incident, involving two vans and a crane, occurred at around 6:15am on Wednesday on the R401 at Drumcooly near Edenderry in County Offaly.

Stephen Mooney, who was pronounced deceased at the scene, will be sadly missed by his loving family, parents Annie and William, Partner Theresa, bothers John, Jason, William Jnr, Martin and Dominic, sisters in-law Louise and Natalie, stepsons Martin and Dean, godsons Scott and Paul, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. 

Heartfelt tributes have been posted for Stephen on RIP.ie with one mourner saying: "Deepest condolences to the Mooney family and to Stephen's partner on his tragic death. He was a lovely person, a hard worker and a great work colleague who will be missed and fondly remembered." 

Another message reads: "Stevie was a true gentleman and I really enjoyed our chats at work. He told me about his motorbikes, bringing home the turf from the bog on the evening times and weekends. He was so proud telling me he bought himself a Harley Davidson about 6 weeks ago. Ride eternal on your Harley, brother." 

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"Sincere sympathy to Theresa and all of the Mooney family. Stephen was a lovely man, always friendly and pleasant with a smile. He will be sadly missed, may Stephen rest in peace, so sad thinking of you all," another mourner wrote.

Stephen will repose at his home (Eircode R45 EF80) this Sunday from 4pm to 7pm with a rosary at 7pm. His Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, September 1 at 12 noon in St. Mary's church Edenderry followed by burial in St. Mary's Cemetery. 

Those unable to attends Stephen's funeral mass can follow a web stream available on RIP.ie.

Gardai are still appealing for any witnesses to Wednesday's incident to contact them as soon as possible.

Any road users with camera footage (including dash-cam) and who were travelling in the area 6am and 6:30am on Wednesday are being asked to make the footage available to investigating gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Tullamore garda station in Offaly on 057 932 7600, the Garda confidential line on 1800 666 111, or any garda station.

The Health and Safety Authority have launched a separate investigation into the fatal incident.  

May Stephen Rest in Peace.