'Colourful, resilient and incredibly authentic' - skiing accident victim Aidan Bergin is laid to rest in Waterford
The late Aidan Bergin.
A poignant farewell was paid to 29-year-old Aidan Bergin last weekend, following his tragic death at a ski-resort in Bulgaria.
A massive crowd attended the funeral mass in St. Augustine’s Church in Abbeyside, a large portion of which was made up of young people, shocked at the untimely death of their friend and work colleague.
Musicians and colleagues travelled from Brussels to attend the mass.
Fr. Ned Hassett welcomed the large crowd of mourners, saying: "To see so many young faces and red eyes in the funeral home last night was arresting. Someone in their prime shouldn’t die.”
Fr Hassett offered reflection on the full life that Aidan lived in his short years, saying "I woke up yesterday morning envious of Aidan and of how he mastered the art of living life to the full."
From travelling the world with friends, to strengthening family bonds through his loving spirit, Aidan was remembered as someone with "infectious energy, warmth and love".
Aidan’s partner Niall introduced the various gifts to the altar, reflecting Aidan’s vibrant life and passions.
Aidan’s passport was brought forward, telling the story of someone "who loved to explore and was always eager to experience new places and cultures."
Niall said: “His travels weren’t just about places, they were about people, memories and the stories he brought home with him.”
Aidan was a keen music fan, reflected through a ‘Florence and the Machine’ record, which was carried to the altar.
"Music wasn’t just something he listened to, it was something that shaped who he was."
A work colleague of Aidan's brought forward his Marketing Person of the Year award, reflecting on the energy and enthusiasm he brought to his succesful career.
A Claddagh Ring scarf was also brought forward, reflecting his kindness, positive attitude and bright personality, traits which ensured that no matter where he was in the world, he could effortlessly make friends and make people feel valued.
Aidan’s half marathon medal, which he recently earned in Rome, reflected his determination and passion in challenging himself.
In a touching eulogy delivered by his brother Eoghan, Aidan was remembered for his role in strengthening family bonds through his playful and competitive spirit.
Aidan was a ‘superstar’, Eoghan said, who would more often than not come out on top in family games and competitions.
From hiking adventures, to tabletop board games, Aidan "currently holds every Bergin title there is to hold".
“Aidan was a rock, colorful, resilient, ever self-assured, positive, incredibly authentic and always had that cheeky little grin on his face. He was truly a warming comfort to all around him.
"I was so looking forward to growing older with Aidan, and experiencing life's next chapters with him.
“He was brave enough to follow his own passions, do the things he wanted to do and not follow the crowd. He walked his own path, which led him somewhere truly beautiful,” Eoghan said.
He concluded: "Aidan did so, so much in his short life and experienced so much that the world has to offer. From that I can take great peace. Aidan loved us all and we all loved him just as much. I am just so incredibly proud of him, proud to call him my brother. I looked up to him so, so much and took big inspiration from him as a person and how he lived his life."
Aidan’s father Joe offered sincere thanks to family, friends and the community for their support during this difficult time.
On behalf of the family, he paid thanks to the Mountain Rescue Team, the hospital staff, Department of Foreign Affairs and the ‘AirBNB lady who helped us translate’ whilst in Bulgaria.
Joe concluded: “To ‘Aido’s’ absolutely amazing friends, who are here with us today and tuning in across the world, you mean an awful lot to us. You bring us so much love and vibrancy. A very special thanks to Niall and Aido’s friends who were on holiday with Aido in Bulgaria. You did all you possibly could for Aido. We love each and every one of you."
