Sports
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Tributes Pour in for Cork Dad-of-Two After Tragic Passing
Cork Beo
January 19, 2026•3 days ago

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Kinsale Rugby Club and friends are mourning the unexpected death of Cian O'Brien, a father-of-two and former club player. O'Brien, also a motorbike enthusiast, received a guard of honor from dozens of motorcyclists. His passing has prompted widespread tributes from the community, remembering him as a joker, gentleman, and kind-hearted individual.
The rugby and motorbike enthusiast passed away last Thursday - RIP
There has been an outpouring of grief following the passing of Kinsale man Cian O'Brien.
The much-loved father-of-two died unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, January 15. He was an avid rugby enthusiast, with Kinsale Rugby Club paying tribute to their former member: "Kinsale Rugby Club would like to express our deepest condolences to the O’Brien family on the news of the passing of Cian. Cian was a former first team player and member of our club and he wore the green, white and blue with pride. His father Tim is a former club captain, club chairman and referee. Our thoughts are with Cian’s family and friends at this difficult time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."
Cian was also a keen motorcyclist, and over the weekend dozens of friends rode by his house in a motorbike guard of honour to give "Cian the send-off he deserves." You can see a video of the moving tribute below:
Cian is sadly missed by his beloved daughters Fiadh and Caoimhe and their mother Sophie, as well as by his parents Tim and Nora and his siblings Louise, Rachel, Rebecca and Andrew. His funeral takes place this afternoon at St. John the Baptist Church in Kinsale, after which Cian will be laid to rest at St. Eltin's Cemetery.
Friends, family and loved ones have shared their memories of Cian. One wrote: "During college, I often bumped into Cian and he was always a joker and gentleman. May he rest in peace." Another added: "Cian, I will always remember our friendship and your kind heart. May you be at peace. My deepest condolences to Cian's family, especially his little girls."
Another mourner sharead: "Condolences to Tim, Nora and family. I will always cherish the memories of summers spent in Kinsale with you and the girls, playing out in the fields, getting up to mischief until sunset. May you rest in eternal peace Cian."
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