'So hard to accept such a loss': Hearts break over tragic death of motorcyclist in Limerick collision

The motorcyclist in his 60s who tragically died following a collision in Limerick has been remembered as a "decent, nice and kind" man.

Dan Curtin lost his life when the motorbike he was driving was involved in a collision with a car on the R515 at Kilmallock on Friday afternoon.

He lived near Mallow in Cork, but he was raised in Tournafulla in west Limerick where he and his family remain in high esteem.

Local Fine Gael councillor Liam Galvin said the family would be one of the most respected in the west of the county.

"The family is steeped in the GAA, music and all parish activities. The community of Tournafulla will rally around them at this terrible time. It's another tragedy to hit Tournafulla," he said.

Details of the father-of-three's funeral have not yet been published, but are expected to be made available this Tuesday afternoon.

Dan worked at Dairygold, and tributes have been paid to him from both sides of the Limerick/Cork border.

"Dan was a very nice and kind man who helped so many time in Dairygold," one person wrote in a tribute on www.rip.ie.

"He was great company, sincere and a true friend," another added.

And a third wrote: "What a sad loss of a beautiful man, a decent man. He was always kind and helpful may God cherish his soul. May his family friends and colleagues be comforted by his very presence. May he always be with us. So hard to accept such a loss - look after us Dan."

Jim Lane, who runs Lane's Stores in Abbeyfeale paid his tributes, as did Patsy and Brid Hartnett, who run Tournafulla post office.

"May you have the best bet in heaven Dan, reunited now with all your family gone before," the sub-postmasters wrote.

Former Cork Fianna Fail TD Ned O'Keeffe described Dan as: "A wonderful employee of Dairygold and had a great approach in dealing with farmers when he worked in the lab in Mallow."

In words also posted to www.rip.ie, Adare man Liam Woulfe, who founded Grassland Agro, joined his wife Marguerita in paying tribute to Dan, who studied together in Pallaskenry and University College Cork.

"Since then as our careers separated, our pursuit for the success of Limerick hurling was our common cause. Dan was a gentleman and a true friend always," Liam added.

Following Friday's incident, the R515 was closed for a technical examination by Garda forensic collision investigators.

An appeal has been issued for any road users who may have camera footage, including dashcam pictures, who were travelling in the area between 1.30pm and 2.15pm on Friday last.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Henry Street garda station on 061-212400, the garda confidential line on 18--666111, or by visiting any garda station across the State.

Dan is the beloved husband of Marion, and adored father to Eoin, Ruth and Brian.

The eldest son of the late Sean and Wily Curtin, and a much loved brother of Maurice, Breda, Miriam and Gerard.

His family have asked if any donations are made, they go to suicide prevention charity Pieta.

His funeral arrangements are due to be released on Tuesday afternoon.

May he rest in peace.