Memorial Mass held for K2 climber

Updated: 12:06, Monday, 18 August 2008

Over 1,000 people gathered in Kilcornan in Co Limerick this afternoon for a memorial Mass for Ger McDonnell, the Irish climber who died descending K2 two weeks ago.

1 of 1Ger McDonnell - Died on K2
Ger McDonnell - Died on K2

Several hundred people gathered in a marquee for the service, with hundreds more listening to the service in a nearby hall or standing outside.

Mr McDonnell's brother, JJ, described him as a man whose passion for life made everyone's life brighter and fuller. He said the family would find the future difficult without him.

The congregation also included Mr McDonnell's mother Gertie and sisters Martha, Stephanie and Denise as well as his girlfriend Annie.

Wilco Van Rooijen, who led the expedition to K2 was also among the mourners. The President and the Taoiseach were represented by their Aides de Camp.

After the memorial doves were released as a tribute to what was described as Ger McDonnell's free spirit.

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