Flock of white doves released as stabbing victim Dean is laid to rest

The sun seemed out of place at the funeral of stabbing victim Dean Fitzpatrick in Dublin yesterday.

More than 150 family and friends of the 23-year-old gathered at the Church of the Holy Trinity in Donaghmede to say goodbye to him.

Dean, a father of one, was stabbed to death at an apartment in Northern Cross, Malahide Rd, Dublin, last Saturday week.

Funeral Mass celebrant Fr Eoin McCrystal said Dean’s mother, Audrey, had taken ill and could not be with them. Also absent was Dean’s stepfather, Dave Mahon.

Christopher Fitzpatrick, Dean’s father, arrived at the church with his son’s partner, Sarah O’Rourke, and his grandson Leon, who is not yet two years old, cradled in his arms.

Dean’s partner was asked by the High Court last week to take charge of the funeral arrangements after his parents failed to agree on which one should receive their son’s remains from the coroner.

Before Mass began, Fr McCrystal invited friends and family to present a number of mementoes.

First to be presented was Dean’s baseball cap, which was placed on the coffin by his brother Alex.

Fr McCrystal said Dean had a great sense of fashion — he always liked to wear his tracksuits and was never without his baseball cap. He also loved cycling, listening to music, and the gym. These passions were represented by a miniature bicycle, a set of headphones, and a small weight.

A miniature cross placed on the table of remembrance represented Dean’s love of religious objects and was a symbol of faith, the priest said.

During his homily, Fr McCrystal said Dean was a proud father and doted on his son.

“Dean was a young man with plenty of life in him so it is only natural that there are so many broken hearts in this church this morning.”

He said Dean also experienced sadness in his young life when his sister, Amy, went missing over five years ago.

“This must be the worst nightmare for any family and Amy is very much in our prayers this day as well.”

He also addressed Dean’s many friends.

“This is a time for each one of you to look out for one another and support each other emotionally through the grieving process. Do not be afraid to look for support.”

In a eulogy, Kevin Harris, Dean’s best friend, said he always had a big smile on his face and was full of energy.

He said Dean was a very good father and loved his partner’s other child, Sophie, 4, as if she was his own daughter.

“When Leon was born, he was so proud to be a father. Dean idolised him and bought him everywhere he could,” he said.

Following the funeral mass, Dean was buried in a new grave in Fingal Cemetery where a flock of white doves was released.