Funeral details released for 'inspirational' NI cyclist Aidan Fitzpatrick whose tragic collision death gave life to five people

The father-of-five, from Garland Hill in Belfast, was involved in a collision on Sunday on the Killyleagh Road near Downpatrick around 2pm.

READ: Family of NI cyclist who died days after collision get 'comfort' that his organs will help five people

He died on October 22.

According to Funeraltimes Requiem Mass for Mr Fitzpatrick will be held on Saturday (October 26) at 10.30am - before moving to Roselawn Crematorium for committal at 1pm.

He will be deeply missed by his loving wife Deirdre, children Peter, Louise, Ciarán, Niall and Niamh and grandchildren.

The Fitzpatrick family, in a statement have told of their devastation at their loss and their "comfort that five other families may get hope from our loss".

They said: "We are devastated to lose our beloved Aidan.

"We have met Aidan's wish to donate his organs and will find comfort that five other families may get hope from our loss.

"Aidan's forethought to be an organ donor is typical of his giving nature and care for others.

"The family is grateful for the many messages of sympathy and support we have received and would ask for privacy at this difficult time."

A post on La Lanterne Rouge Cycling Club Facebook page - of which Mr Fitzpatrick was a member - reveals his esteemed membership in the club.

The post reads: " It is with great sadness and regret that the committee of La Lanterne Rouge Cycling Club (LLRCC) must inform you that our member Mr Aidan Fitzpatrick passed away today in the RVH from injuries sustained following a road traffic accident while on a club spin on Sunday 20th October.

Aidan was much loved by his cycling friends. He was a true gentleman and it was an absolute privilege to know him. He will be very sadly missed by us all.

The membership and committee of La Lanterne Rouge Cycling Club convey our deepest sympathies to Aidan’s wife Deirdre, and their children Louise, Ciaran, Peter, Niall & Niamh.

RIP Aidan".

The chief executive of the Equality Commission also paid tribute to Mr Fitzpatrick who worked as a colleague.

Dr Evelyn Collins said Mr Fitzpatrick's colleagues were shocked and saddened by his death.

"Aidan worked with the Fair Employment Commission and then the Equality Commission and made a huge contribution to equality in workplaces across Northern Ireland over his long career," she said.

"He was a true gentleman and will be greatly missed by all of us.

"We send our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends at this very sad time."