“An immeasurable loss”.
That’s how the BBC’s voice of the GAA, Thomas Niblock, described the news of Caolan Finnegan’s passing shortly after 8.30am on Friday morning. He was surrounded by his family in Daisy Hill Hospital.
He will be an immeasurable loss on the field, but off the field his loss will be hardest felt. A mother and father heartbroken, four brothers devastated; girlfriend, wider family and circle of friends who will struggle to come to terms with the cruelty of it all.
For those who had the privilege of knowing him will, in time, be grateful for the memories they will be able to share.
An Ulster colleges All-Star and county championship winner with his club, Crossmaglen Rangers, Stringer was destined for the stars.
A quick search of his name online and videos of his talents; goals in the 2022 Armagh championships – less than two years ago illustrating what a precocious talent he was.
Marksman-like in front of goal, he would have almost certainly had an All-Ireland medal in his back pocket had his trajectory not been halted by cancer.
Sadly, his battle was run on Friday morning, at the age of 20.
Armagh coach, Kieran Donaghy, posting on X, said: “Devastating loss for his family, friends and the Crossmaglen community. Stringer battled as hard as he could, showed up at a session before the All-Ireland to inspire the Armagh boys, it worked. Rest in peace Caolan 🖤🧡.”
Stefan ‘Soupy’ Campbell spoke of that evening in the aftermath of Armagh’s All-Ireland triumph. What it meant for the players and in particular his Crossmaglen clubmates. He also spoke of Stringer last weekend following his own club’s [Clan na Gael] win over Cross’.
Incidentally, Caolan’s last game for the club was in their championship clash with Clan na Gael last August.
Caolan was never too far from people’s thoughts, both in Armagh and further afield.
“Life is beyond cruel,” wrote Thomas Niblock. “A fine man, from a brilliant family, Caolán Finnegan died this morning. Represented Armagh, Crossmaglen and St Colman’s Newry. Tried everything to fight off brain cancer. A warrior on the field and off it. A role model for us all. He was just 20.”
Irish News journalist Cahair O’Kane visited the Finnegan home last year following Stringer’s diagnosis. He covered his story.
He wrote: “Incredibly sad news that Caolan Finnegan has lost his battle this morning. Was privileged to have spent a day in his company last year. Wore such a gentle smile on his face. Heartbroken for his family, girlfriend Emily, his friends and team-mates.”
First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, added: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Caolan Finnegan.
Caolan’s remarkable strength and courage in the face of such a heartbreaking illness was a source of inspiration to so many.
“My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the local community in South Armagh as they mourn this profound loss. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Caolan, cherished son of Liam and Janette. Beloved brother of Stephen, Ronan, Patsy and Liam Og.
Dear boyfriend of Emily. Brother in law of Elaine and Hannah. Devoted uncle of Ayla, Fiadh and Shea.
Predeceased by his grandparents Patsy and Mary Finnegan RIP and his aunts Patricia and Marian RIP. Devoted grandson of Michael and Eileen Hughes.
Removal from McConville’s Funeral Home, O’Fiaich Square at 7pm on Friday evening (visitors welcome from 6pm) to his home at 23 Lismore Crossmaglen.
WAKE visiting times: Friday Night – Strictly Private for Family Only; Saturday – from 10am to late, Sunday – 10am to 9pm (House strictly private after 9pm until Monday Morning.
Funeral on Monday, August 26 leaving his home at 10:15am to St Patrick’s Church, Crossmaglen (via the Rangers Field) arriving for Requiem Mass at 11am.
Livestream of mass via the parish webcam www.uppercreggan.co.uk. Burial afterwards in the adjoining Cemetery. Caolan’s family would appreciate it if everyone could wear their Club, County or College colours when attending the Wake or Funeral.
Deeply regretted by his heartbroken parents, brothers, girlfriend, grandparents, nephew, nieces, extended Finnegan & Hughes family, neighbours, friends and fellow gaels round the world. Enquiries to McConville Funeral Directors Crossmaglen
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