Air Corps and sporting clubs in mourning after Athlone man's death

There was a deep sense of shock and sadness in the Athlone area when news emerged of the death of Conal Sheeran yesterday (Tuesday).

Conal worked in the Irish Air Corps, and the 30-year-old Athlone man was also a popular sportsman.

The Irish Defence Forces has released a statement, acknowledging Conal's distinguished service and extending sympathy to his family in Athlone.

"It is with great sadness that Óglaigh na hÉireann can confirm that the death has occurred of Lieutenant Conal Sheeran of the Irish Air Corps, who was found in an unresponsive state by his colleagues in Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel," said the statement.

"Lt Sheeran was a native of County Westmeath and was 30 years of age. Lt Sheeran joined Óglaigh na hÉireann in 2012 as a Recruit in 1 Infantry Battalion, before joining the 70th Air Corps Apprentice Class also in 2012. He graduated from this training in 2016 and subsequently became a member of the 36th Air Corps Cadet Class in 2017. He completed this training and was commissioned as an Officer in the Air Corps in 2020.

"Lt Sheeran had 11 proud years of service with Óglaigh na hÉireann and served in a number of appointments. He also completed a Bachelor of Engineering in Military Aviation Technology in NUI Galway," the statement continued.

The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Seán Clancy stated: "The Air Corps and Óglaigh na hÉireann have lost a fine colleague and a better friend. All of us in Óglaigh na hÉireann extend our deepest sympathies to the family and the friends of Lt Sheeran, and to all those who were lucky enough to have known him, in whatever capacity that it was. He will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Although his work with the Air Corps saw based away from Athlone, Conal maintained strong ties to the local area through his sporting activities.

In 2013, Conal scored a dramatic winning goal when Athlone won the Westmeath U21 football championship final against St Loman's, Mullingar. He generally played as a goalkeeper in subsequent years and won an intermediate championship medal in 2015, when Athlone defeated Tubberclair in the final.

A very popular figure within Athlone GAA club and indeed further afield, Conal was always an encouraging presence on the sideline at Athlone matches, whether in the role of substitute or supporter. As a mark of respect to Conal, Athlone did not play a Division 4 league match scheduled to take place last night (Tuesday).

The Sheeran family is highly respected locally and both of Conal's parents, Frank and Imelda, are known for their involvement in sport. Frank was a talented footballer in his youth and won an All-Ireland title with Carmelite College Moate. He served as a recent president of Buccaneers RFC, while both Imelda and Frank are active members of Athlone Golf Club.

Buccaneers RFC has decided to postpone an awards function scheduled for this Friday night, owing to the death of Conal.

"As a mark of respect due to the untimely passing of Conal Sheeran, Buccaneers Rugby Football Club’s Awards event has been postponed. Heartfelt condolences are extended to his parents Frank and Imelda and to sister Rebecca. May Conal rest in eternal peace," said a statement from Buccaneers.

Conal also played soccer for a number of teams, including Tullamore Town. May he rest in peace.

*See here for Athlone GAA tribute and funeral details.