‘The heart and soul of our family': Irishman (30) drowns in Canada

Sunday World

16-06-2025

Stuart Doonan, originally from Drumquin, passed away on Friday
Tributes have been paid to a young man from Co Tyrone who died in a drowning incident in Canada last week.
Stuart Doonan, originally from Drumquin, passed away on Friday after getting into difficulty in water near where he was staying in Montreal.
The 30-year-old's death has left his family and friends heartbroken prompting his loved ones to start an online memorial page to 'keep his memory alive'.
In a statement posted on social media, his sister Stacey said: 'We are devastated about the circumstances surrounding his passing, as he tragically drowned near his accommodation in Montreal.
'Stuart was full of life and full of love, the heart and soul of our family and he will be sorely missed.
'We will give details of wake and funeral when we navigate the difficulties of getting Stuart home. Thank you to everyone for all their love and support, it is appreciated by all of the family.'
Whilst funeral details have not yet been confirmed, a death notice describes Stuart as a 'dearly beloved son of David and Carol' and 'a devoted brother of Clara (John), Stacey (Will) and the late baby Andrew'.
"A much-loved grandson of Robert and the late Florence and the late Tommy and Jennifer. A dear nephew and cousin,' it adds.
Local communities across Ireland and Canada have expressed shock and sadness at the news.
The online memorial states: 'Stuart was a wonderful person, and this page is a tribute from all those lucky enough to have met him.
'He will be sorely missed. From his warm and caring personality, to his infectious enthusiasm for music, right down to his bravery and sense of adventure in chasing his dreams, he was a true gem and an inspiration.
'There's so much to say about Stuart, and this page will only ever capture a handful of the thoughts and memories of him that we hold dear.
'To the Doonan family we give our love and condolences, and a glimpse into how much your Stuart meant to us.
'To Stuart - RIP, horse. We will never forget you x'
Stuart Doonan. (Image: Armstrong Funeral Directors)
News in 90 seconds - 16th June 2025
Leeds-based music promoter Bad Owl Presents paid an emotional tribute to Stuart who was a regular at their events before 'he recently moved away to follow his dream of living and working in Canada'.
"We're extremely saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Stuart Doonan,' it posted online.
"He brought an excitement and passion to our shows, was a huge advocate of the scene and always had a daft story to regale to us in between bands.
"He will be very much missed and our thoughts go out to his friends and family. x"