‘A true strongman, an even better human, and one of the funniest characters the world was ever blessed with’
Eddie Hall has paid tribute to his friend(Image: )
Former World’s Strongest Man Eddie Hall has raised a staggering £187,000 and counting for a ‘big character’ bodybuilder Pa O’Dwyer who tragically died aged 40.
The Beast paid tribute to his fellow strongman who was celebrated for his friendly nature, humour and extraordinary power, which earned him a remarkable five Ireland’s Strongest Man titles. He became known as the ‘Limerick Lion’ before going on to become an Instagram star with hundreds of thousands of followers.
Eddie, from Clayton, said: “A true strongman, an even better human, and one of the funniest characters the world was ever blessed with. Pa brought strength, laughter and warmth wherever he went.
“He genuinely was one of life’s biggest characters and everyone who ever met him would have a story to tell I’m sure. UK’s and Ireland’s strongest man was one of many titles he held but his most important and his most proud title was ‘Dad’. Pa leaves behind three beautiful children, Sienna, Rocco and Freddy and partner Layna for which he loved more than life itself,”
Eddie has since posted a link to a GoFundMe page established in Pa’s honour, with proceeds going towards supporting his family. The fundraiser has currently collected £187,571 towards its £250,000 goal.
The Beast noted in the appeal that Pa had a “whole family that loved and adored him” and that his passing had created a “massive hole, emotionally and practically”.
Pa died on January 3 following a sudden illness and he was laid to rest yesterday (January 7). Numerous tributes poured in online for Pa, with many celebrating the “funny likeable man” who had recently posted footage of himself building with Lego beside his son.
One Reddit user wrote: “This legitimately makes me so sad. He was such an incredibly kind and empathetic human. I cannot fathom this.”
According to the Daily Star, another person remarked: “He seemed such a gent And a true great of Irish sport.”
The Irish Strength Association released a statement describing Pa as “a legend in strength sports in Ireland.” Giants Live, the main qualifying circuit for the World’s Strongest Man, added: “Pa brought strength, laughter, and warmth wherever he went.
“He truly was one of life’s larger-than-life personalities, and anyone who met him will surely have a story to tell.”
You can support Pa’s GoFundMe here.
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