Late RTE star Sean Rocks' family pay tribute to medics for care during ‘most difficult time' as funeral details revealed
The "gentle soul"
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Sean suddenly passed away at age 64
Credit: Copyright remains with handout provider
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Sean's funeral mass will be taking place over the bank holiday weekend
Credit: Copyright remains with handout provider
Sean died in St. Vincent's University Hospital surrounded by his loving family.
He was best known as the host of the national station's long-running Radio 1 arts and culture show, Arena, which has aired on weeknights since 2009.
News of his death shocked RTE pals as he had been on air as recently as last Friday.
Sean was predeceased by his parents Paddy and Philly and his brother Eamon who died in infancy.
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He will be deeply missed by his beloved Catherine, adored and adoring sons Christian and Morgan and his siblings Padraig, Siobhan, Ciaran (Luisa) and Grainne (Kevin).
The radio star will also be missed by his niece Hannah, his nephew Matthew, extended family, friends, work colleagues and his many listeners.
Sean will repose at Clerkins Funeral Home Milltown, Monaghan from 3pm until 6pm on Saturday, August 2, and Sunday, August 3.
His funeral mass will take place at St Macartan's Cathedral on Monday, August 4, at 11am and will be
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The burial will take place afterwards at the adjoining ceremony.
A statement on RIP.ie said: "May his gentle soul, rest now in eternal peace.
"Sean's family would like to sincerely thank the Intensive Care Unit in St.Vincents University Hospital for the excellent and devoted care that they give Sean and them throughout their most difficult time."
All family homes are strictly private at all times please, to give the family the time and respect to spend with Sean.
Tributes poured in from across the cultural sphere for the radio favourite, who is survived by his beloved wife Catherine and sons Morgan and Christian.
President Michael D Higgins led the memorials to Rocks, describing him as 'a warm and engaging person, loved by all who had the opportunity to meet him or to listen to his programme'.
President Higgins, who said he had just met with Sean and his family at the Aras last month, added: 'Ireland has lost one its finest broadcasters and advocates for the arts and artists.
'Sean's show Arena on Radio One was an example, for all generations of listeners, of the deep, wide and supportive curiosity that he delivered from a rich insight into all aspects of the arts and culture.'
He continued: 'Just last month, we had the benefit in the Aras on Bloomsday this year of Sean's brilliant critical and presentational skills and of welcoming his family.
'His trademark warmth and knowledge of the performers and their work lifted the occasion as it always did, communicating an instinctive respect for performance.'
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