Discover more from News from Underground by Mark Crispin Miller
In memory of those who "died suddenly" in the United Kingdom and Ireland, August 2-August 8
Soap star Sam Gannon; top chef Alistair Little; Irish hurler Dillon Quirke (collapsed mid-game); Michael O'Brien ("Titan of Irish publishing"); animal rights campaigner Martina Comerford; & many more
UNITED KINGDOM
ITV Emmerdale's Sam Gannon dies suddenly aged 31 while travelling abroad
August 6, 2022
Emmerdale actor Sam Gannon has sadly died aged 31. Known for playing Kev in the long-running series, Sam was staying with family in California when he passed away. The actor's death is being investigated by police but is not being treated as suspicious.
Paying tribute to the 'unique character' his sister Amy Kelly said: "Sam was a whirlwind, a unique character to say the least. He genuinely cared for others and was a very sensitive soul. It is clear from the tributes we have received that he touched the hearts of so many.’’ Close pal Lewis Matthews added: "Sam was a ‘real life Duracell bunny' with a seemingly endless supply of energy and love. He delighted audiences with his charm, wit and his wonderful musical abilities."
No cause of death reported.
The Devastating Death Of Alastair Little
August 4, 2022
With 2022 just over halfway through, the culinary world has been shaken by the loss of many greats like "Top Chef" alum Howard Kleinberg, cookbook author Diana Kennedy, and Di Fara founder Dom DeMarco. Sadly compounding that loss, chef Alastair Little has passed away at 72 (via Eater London). His accomplishments as a chef, restaurant owner, and cookbook author earned him the moniker "the grandfather of modern British cooking."...
Alastair Little's unexpected death sparked an outpouring of love from fans and the culinary community (via Eater London). Speaking on Little's legacy in an Instagram post, fellow British chef Jeremy Lee said, "Alastair Little was a godfather of modern British cooking and a champion of keeping it simple.”
No cause of death reported.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/article/the-devastating-death-of-alastair-little/ar-AA10hfvl
Two firefighters:
Tributes to Bilston trainee firefighter who 'died suddenly'
August 3, 2022
West Midlands Fire Service is in mourning after announcing the "sudden death" of a trainee firefighter based in Bilston. It paid tribute to Daniel Kidner who only passed out as a trainee firefighter in May but tragically died whilst off duty. West Midlands Fire Service confirmed his death with a series of tweets last night (Tuesday August 2).
No age or cause of death reported.
https://www.dudleynews.co.uk/news/20596849.tributes-bilston-trainee-firefighter-died-suddenly/
Reported on August 2:
Tributes paid after sudden death of Leicestershire firefighter who died off duty
August 2, 2022
Andrew Watt, who has worked the Green Watch shift at Loughborough Fire Station for the last 16 years, has died.
A Leicestershire firefighter has died suddenly while on leave. Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service have paid tribute to Andrew Watt, who worked at Loughborough Fire Station for almost 16 years before his untimely death.
Andrew, known as Andy, served in the armed forces within the Staffordshire Regiment before joining the service in August 2006. Those who knew him have described their friend as a "big personality" and a "very proud man" in the wake of the tragic loss. "A true professional and a real credit to the Service", said his colleagues. "His loss will be immeasurable."
No age or cause of death reported.
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/tributes-paid-after-sudden-death-7412976
English woman found dead in swimming pool
August 5, 2022
Algarve, Portugal - A 70-year-old English woman was found dead yesterday afternoon (Aug. 4) in the town of Benaciate, parish of São Bartolomeu de Messines, in the municipality of Silves, the Algarve Primeiro said.
According to the publication, the District Command of Relief Operations of Faro - CDOS, said CPR attempts were made on the victim, but to no effect, and death was declared at the scene by the INEM doctor. The publication also adds that, when contacted, the GNR said the lady's death was not due to drowning, "but likely to a heart attack and subsequent fall into the pool", adding that the lady had been home and looked after the pool while her husband gardened in another part of the property. According to the publication, the alarm was given at 3:53 pm and 11 personnel were involved in the operation, including firefighters from São Bartolomeu de Messines, INEM and GNR, supported by 5 vehicles.
'Clap for Leigh' - Tributes paid to 'loveable' and 'compassionate' Leicester City football fan who died aged 36
August 4, 2022
Family and friends have paid tribute to a much-loved resident of Syston who died suddenly at the age of 36. Leigh Baker, described as "loveable", "compassionate" and a lover of frothy coffee, died on June 20.
The tragic news has left his mum, Karen Smith, dad Wes Baker, stepdad Derek Smith and brother William Baker, devastated as they mourn the passing of the "always smiling" charity worker. He has also left behind his epilepsy companion, Labradoodle Digger - who he was never seen without.
The avid Leicester City fan was a season ticket holder and his loved ones are requesting fellow supporters around Leicestershire to clap during the team's match against Brentford on Sunday, August 7. The family have requested people watching the game at home, or from the stands, to get involved and clap during the 36th minute to celebrate each year of Leigh's life.
No cause of death reported.
https://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/news/local-news/clap-leigh-tributes-paid-loveable-7418027
'Beautiful' girl, 13, found in car park before 'unexpected' death as family in shock
August 7, 2022
The devastated family of a 13-year-old girl who died after being found unconscious in a car park have paid tribute to a "beautiful soul". Chloe Wheatman was rushed to hospital after she was found unresponsive in the car park in Sutton, London, at around 1 am on Friday July 29 but died a short while later. Her heartbroken family, who described her as "a little firework", said they've been left in shock by the news.
Older sister Jade, 22, told MyLondon: "It was completely unexpected. I'll never forget the phone call, ever. I went straight to the hospital but she was already gone. My heart is broken."
The Met Police said Chloe's death is being treated as 'unexpected'. A spokesperson said: "Further enquiries are taking place to establish the circumstances. A post-mortem examination will be arranged."
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/beautiful-girl-13-found-car-27677777
Two mothers “died suddenly”:
Reported on August 2:
Tribute to 'bubbly, outgoing, lively' St Annes mum who died suddenly aged just 50
August 2, 2022
An Ansdell woman has paid tribute to her ‘bubbly and outgoing’ mum who died suddenly aged just 50 – and thanked the community that rallied to raise funds for her funeral. Sharon Torrance, of St Annes Square, died of a suspected heart attack on July 21.
Death riddle as mum, 29, dies suddenly at home just weeks after finishing health degree
August 8, 2022
Tributes have been paid to a mum-of-four who died suddenly just weeks after finishing her health degree. Holly Dakin, 29, had just graduated from Nottingham Trent University when she was found dead at home Sanger Gardens, Clifton, on April 30. An inquest into her death has now been opened at the Nottingham Council House, and Holly's family are crowdfunding money to support her children in the years to come.
Holly's father Rob, 64, who lives in West Bridgford with his wife Rosemarie, 60, said their daughter had passed away without warning and without known illness. He said he understood the valves in his daughter's heart had failed, causing a heart attack. "She had just graduated three to four weeks prior in health and social care, which is probably needed."
The inquest into Holly's death was opened at Nottingham Council House on Friday, August 5. Assistant coroner for Nottinghamshire, Fiona Gingell, said: "Given the information currently available there is reason to suspect that Ms Dakin's death was unnatural and it is my statutory duty to open an inquest into her death."
The coroner sent her condolences to the loved ones of Holly. The inquest was adjourned to a date to be fixed.
Noel Tracey: Brother's tribute to dedicated GAA member after sudden illness
August 2, 2022
Tributes have been paid to a popular Co Tyrone man who passed away following a sudden illness on Monday. Noel Tracey from Kildress was a much-loved member of the local Wolfe Tones GAA club in the village, and had contributed as a player, coach and referee for the tight-knit club which the Tracey family has long been associated with.
Noel’s brother Dessie told MyTyrone he looked up to his brother in so many ways, and that the family were devastated by his loss.
“Noel was our go-to man in the family, he had the answers that we could never find,” Dessie said. “He loved the sport of his local GAA club Kildress Wolfe Tones and played his part on the pitch then went on to youth management of underage teams."
The local GAA club paid tribute to Noel with a statement, commenting that just a month ago he had played a vital part in securing the All Ireland Feile title for the club’s girls team.
No age or cause of death reported.
https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/noel-tracey-brothers-tribute-dedicated-24647918
Tributes paid to much-loved rugby coach who died aged 42
August 2, 2022
Tributes have been paid to a much-loved rugby coach who died at the age of 42 at the weekend following a short illness. Following his passing, Gareth Lewis has been credited as making a "huge contribution to Welsh rugby" in a variety of different roles. As well as coaching at Caerphilly Rugby Club, Gareth also worked for the Welsh Rugby Union as both a hub officer and development officer, also serving in a similar role at the Dragons.
No cause of death reported.
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/tributes-paid-much-loved-rugby-24650958
Christopher Paul McHarron, 63
August 4, 2022
Liverpool - Passed away suddenly aged 63 years. Beloved husband of Karen (Kay), loving dad of Richard & Steph, grandad (pops) of Sophie. Will be sadly missed by all his family, friends and colleagues.
No cause of death reported
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/liverpool-news/liverpool-echo
Byron Oliver, 72
Hythe, Southampton - In loving memory of Byron Oliver who passed away unexpectedly on 30th July 2022 aged 72 years. Byron will be sadly missed by all his family and friends, the service will be a celebration of Byron's life and his family would like you all to wear bright colours to the service.
No cause of death reported.
https://www.funeralguide.co.uk/obituaries/102668
John McLintock
August 5, 2022
John John died suddenly, unexpectedly but peacefully at his home in Glasgow on 15th July. Eldest son of the late Iain and Margaret, gorgeous and much-loved brother of Claire and James, cherished uncle to Hart and Vita and brother-in-law to John Reynolds.
No age or cause of death reported.
https://www.heraldscotland.com/announcements/deaths/deaths/20605325.John_Mc_Lintock/
Graham Thompson, 55
August 8, 2022
Graham Thompson. Suddenly on 28th July aged 55 years. Beloved fiance of Allison, son to the late Stan and Gwennie Thompson and brother to Ann. Uncle to Emily and Claudia, step dad to be to Frances.
No cause of death reported.
https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/announcements/deaths/deaths/20607121.Graham_THOMPSON/
Dawn Frazer, 53
August 5, 2022
Liverpool - 18th July 2022, suddenly aged 53 years. Reunited with her mum, dad, brother Paul and sister Mandy. A much loved mum to Georgia, a loving nanny to Hallie, a loving sister of Michelle and John, a loving auntie to Jade and Carl, a dear mother-in-law to Jordan.
No cause of death reported.
https://funeral-notices.co.uk/notice/frazer/5059044
Reported on August 2:
John Henry Parker, 45
August 2, 2022
Suddenly at home aged 45. A beloved son of Malcolm and Rita, a loving stepson of Michael, a much loved brother of Helen, Anthony, Sarah and Michael, a dear uncle to all his nieces and nephews and a dear brother-in-law.
No cause of death reported.
https://funeral-notices.co.uk/notice/parker/5057922
IRELAND
Tipperary Hurler Dillon Quirke Dies After Collapse on Pitch
August 6, 2022
A 24-year-old hurler from Tipperary has died following his collapse on the pitch yesterday evening. Dillon Quirke collapsed during a senior championship game against Kilruane McDonagh in Thurles. Emergency services attended to Quirke on the pitch in FBD Semple Stadium, after which he was brought to Tipperary University Hospital, where he later died.
No cause of death reported.
https://www.newstalk.com/news/tipperary-hurler-dillon-quirke-dies-after-collapse-on-pitch-1370196
'Titan of Irish publishing' Michael O’Brien dies
August 2, 2022
The death has occurred of “titan of Irish publishing” Michael O’Brien, who founded leading Irish publisher O’Brien Press in 1974. The award-winning company published much-loved books such as Under the Hawthorn Tree, Me Jewel and Darlin' Dublin. Mr O’Brien passed away suddenly at St James’s Hospital, Dublin on Sunday.
“We are all in shock following the sudden death of my father,” said Mr O’Brien’s son Ivan, who is also the managing director at O’Brien Press. “Thanks for all the kind words, everyone.”
Mr O'Brien's family described him as a “publisher, activist, artist, sailor” on his death notice. He was presented with a special merit award from the Reading Association of Ireland in 1997 for “exceptional care, skill and professionalism in publishing, resulting in a consistently high standard in all of the children's books published by The O'Brien Press”.
Mr O’Brien was also a founding member of the international board on books for young people Ireland and Children’s Books Ireland (CBI). In 2006, he won the CBI Award of the Decade for services to children’s literature. Condolences have flooded in from authors and readers across Ireland, paying tribute to a man who made a significant impact on the world of Irish publishing.
No age or cause of death reported.
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40931852.html
Tributes pour in for 'fearless' animal rights campaigner and 'loyal' friend Martina Comerford
August 6, 2022
Tributes have been flowing in for "fearless" animal rights campaigner Martina Comerford. Martina was well-known for tirelessly fighting for the welfare of vulnerable dogs around country. The Finglas woman died suddenly at home. She will be missed by her husband Thomas Kane and kids Nathan and Katie.
Animal rights activists all over the country have been reflecting on the impact Martina had during her time on earth. She had spent decades campaigning against greyhound racing and cruel pounds. Her friend Noiren Carrigg told Dublin Live that she hopes that Martina will be greeted by canine companions on the rainbow bridge.
No age or cause of death reported.
https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/tributes-pour-fearless-animal-rights-24686951
Devastated Irish parents say 'bubbly baby' who died suddenly was 'taken too soon'
August 8, 2022
Dublin - Two parents from Kildare are raising funds for Temple Street Children’s Hospital after losing their seven month baby to cancer last week. Cora was a “beautiful bubbly baby” who provided her mum and dad, Erin and Conor with “seven months of love, laughter and immense joy”. Cora was born on December, 6, 2021, St Nicholas Day, the patron saint of children and she passed on July 31, 2022, the last day of summer.
“A natural eater she took to breastfeeding right away and in her later months she loved her solid foods too,” her parents added. “Bath time was one of her favourites as she splashed around causing havoc and being pampered in coconut oil. Up until her symptoms started showing in her last week, you would never have known there was a thing wrong with her."
https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/devastated-irish-parents-say-bubbly-24700471
Community rocked after sudden death of 'shining light' on Bank Holiday weekend
August 4, 2022
Tributes have poured in after the sudden passing of a Wexford woman. Clare Jordan, 29, died on Bank Holiday Saturday at her home in Ballytegan in Gorey and it has left the community rocked. She had made a big impact on the town, working in several local businesses including a popular café on the main street in the bustling town centre.
Her friendly demeanour made a mark on the people of Gorey, who have been paying tribute online after the news broke of her untimely death.
One person wrote: "Clare a shining light that has left way too soon. Heartfelt sympathies to family and friends there simply are no words for the tragic loss of Clare."
No cause of death reported.
https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/community-rocked-after-sudden-death-27653738
Tributes to consultant who died after medical incident during Tour de Kilkenny
August 8, 2022
Tributes have been paid to an emergency department consultant at St Luke's General Hospital in Kilkenny who died after a medical incident on his bike during the Tour de Kilkenny. Dr Frank O'Dwyer, who was in his 60s, passed away last Tuesday at Beaumont Hospital. He was hospitalised the previous Saturday morning following a medical episode in the Clashwilliam, Gowran area, during the biking event.
Dr O'Dwyer worked at St Luke's hospital for over 16 years, and in a statement, the hospital expressed their sadness on his "untimely and tragic death". The hospital said the consultant was a dedicated and valued member of the emergency department who provided "professional compassionate care to many of the citizens in Carlow and Kilkenny".Meanwhile, Marble City Cyclers posted on Facebook that they were devastated at the passing of their "esteemed member".
No age or cause of death reported
https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40935554.html
Charlie Foy, 4
August 3, 2022
We offer of condolences to Caitriona and Alan Foy on the sudden death of their son Charlie (age 4 years).
No cause of death reported.
https://monkstownparish.ie/deathnotices/charlie-foy/
Chloe Eleanor Una Stamp, 7
August 4, 2022
Chloé Eleanor Una Stamp,(Annagh, Gorey, Co. Wexford) born February 20, 2014, died August 4, 2022, peacefully at home after a short illness.
No cause of death reported.
https://notices.irishtimes.com/death/stamp-chloe-eleanor-una/60092503
In memory of those who "died suddenly" in the United Kingdom and Ireland, August 2-August 8
And once again we are back to No Cause of Death Reported? Perhaps cause of death is not listed or included in obituaries. Whereas in Cuba, Dominican Republic, etc. the reports are actual news reports not just obituaries. Not sure, but it seems sudden deaths should include a cause of death...
Tragedy as mum dies on flight home to UK - with kids sat beside her until landing
UK mother died on flight from Hong Kong to London sitting next to her children --kids sat next to her dead body for most of the flight
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/british-mum-dies-on-flight-27684908