Cork chef dies after suffering heart attack climbing Mt Kilimanjaro on 40th birthday
On Tuesday, James O'Connor, chef at Tony's Bistro on North Main Street, was just a few hundred feet away from the summit of Africa's highest peak when he took ill. Picture: Tony's Bistro/Facebook
A popular Cork chef has died after suffering a heart attack while climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to celebrate his 40th birthday.
James O'Connor, chef at Tony's Bistro on North Main Street, was just a few hundred feet away from the summit of Africa's highest peak when he took ill on Tuesday.
The father-of-three had been climbing with "his dear friend Alan."
Confirming the news on Facebook, a spokesperson for Tony's Bistro said: "It is with the deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our hero, James O'Connor.
"Our amazing brother, our legendary chef, super Dad, husband, and friend to all.
"On his 40th birthday, James set a goal to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro along with his dear friend Alan.
"Sadly, a few hundred feet from the summit, James suffered a heart attack and passed away.
Tony's Bistro was closed on Tuesday as a mark of respect.
"Please hold James in your thoughts as he makes his journey back home to us," the statement concluded.
Hundreds of people have since posted messages paying tribute to the beloved chef since the news broke.
"James, as I always said, you were some man for one man. May you rest in peace," read one comment.
"An inspirational human being with no fear, thoughts and prayers with all of you," added another.
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