John Mullins: The larger-than-life character will be a huge loss to Cork 

John was a generous friend and a talented entrepreneur, who made lasting contributions to business, sport, and civic life. We will miss him dearly

John Mullins: It is still hard to believe that such a larger-than-life character, full of wit and mischief, is no longer with us.

Early morning texts and calls rarely herald good news. That was true last Monday, when phones started to chirrup all over Cork and beyond before 9am with a terrible message —  the sudden passing of John Mullins at the age of just 57.

It is still hard to believe that such a larger-than-life character, full of wit and mischief, is no longer with us. He will be a huge loss to Cork, the city he always championed, to the companies he founded and led to success, to his innumerable friends, and to countless business acquaintances and contacts. Above all his passing is a searing blow to his family, who knew him best.