Tributes have been paid to Adrian McAnarney, a devoted family man and passionate hiker from Katesbridge in County Down, Northern Ireland, who died following an incident in Eryri National Park. He is understood to have died on Sunday, August 2, after an accident while hiking in the area.
Kilimanjaro climb and charity work
Three years ago, Mr McAnarney joined a group of hiking companions on a remarkable adventure that saw them reach the summit of Kilimanjaro, all in support of the Southern Area Hospice. The sponsored climb raised an impressive total of £52,523.
A keen hiker in the Mourne Mountains near his home, he was reportedly planning to attempt to climb Mount Everest the following year, reports Belfast Live. He was also one of the co-authors of the book 'Memories from the Mountain,' written alongside fellow climbers who had conquered Africa's highest peak.
Family and funeral details
A death notice confirmed that Mr McAnarney was a devoted husband of Monica; cherished father of Jack and Charlie; loving brother of Sean, Brian, Eamon, Cathal and Jacqueline McClorey; and son of the late John and Margaret.
It added: "Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course. House strictly private at the family's request."
"He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his heartbroken wife, sons, brothers, sister, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, parents-in-law Michael and Ann Duffy (Banbridge), nephews, nieces and the entire family circle."
"Family flowers only, donations in lieu if desired to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust online via muchloved.com."
Community tributes
Numerous tributes have been paid to Mr McAnarney on social media following the news of his tragic passing. He has been fondly remembered as "an absolute gentleman".
One person wrote: "There are no words. Such terrible news to hear. We had the pleasure of sharing a house in Italy with Adrian this year while on a hiking trip. He was a true gentleman with a pure passion for hiking. Rest in peace Adrian."
"May your memory live on, every path climbed and every summit reached. It was a pleasure to have known you. Condolences to all your family at this difficult time."
Another commented: "You were one of a kind and such an amazing friend."
Fellow Kilimanjaro hiker Emma Mullen said: "You were an incredible human being. We were blessed to know you and honoured to have walked some of life's paths with you. You will be sadly missed. Sending all my thoughts and prayers to Monica, Jack and Charlie."
