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06 Sept 2025

RIP: Tragic Irish man miraculously saves five lives after dying in Spain assault

Adam died in hospital in Malaga, Spain after he was allegedly assaulted while on holiday

RIP: Tragic Irish man miraculously saves five lives after dying in Spain assault
Tributes were paid at the funeral of a Tipperary man who passed away following an assault while on holiday in Spain earlier this month.

Adam Walsh, from Tivoli Heights, Powerstown Road, Clonmel, Co Tipperary, died on Saturday, October 19, in a Malaga hospital. Authorities report that two individuals have been detained by Spanish police in connection with the incident, which ultimately led to Mr. Walsh being placed on life support.

Requiem mass took place on Tuesday in SS Peter and Paul’s Church, Clonmel. Adam has saved the lives of at least five people through his gift of organ donation, his funeral heard.

Predeceased by his baby cousin Luke Troy, Mr Walsh is mourned by his parents Audrey and Alan, brothers Jamie and Scott, girlfriend Leah and his pet Lexi, his grandparents Ann, Noelie, Eleanor and Denny, aunts, uncles, cousins and all those who knew him.

Fr Michael Toomey said Adam was born in April 15, 2000. He attended school in St Oliver’s primary school and then on to the High School in Clonmel. There he played hurling and football, along with Clonmel Commercials.

“As a young man he was well loved,” said Fr Toomey. “One of his neighbours said of Adam, ‘I always remember him as a kind and caring boy with a cheeky grin and a sparkle in his eyes’.

“This person said, ‘I have one particular memory, where he went out of his way a few years ago, when he was just a teenager, to help me find me my lost cat in the neighbourhood.”

Adam possessed a “community spirit” and a need to help others. He encouraged many others with their physical and emotional health. “Adam will be remembered for his bright colours,” added Fr Toomey.

“His runners were always spotless.” Adam had a passion for motorbikes, and was into his cross country motorcycling. He was always dressed smartly, and at least once a week, would attend the barbers to make sure he looked pristine, going out or going to work.

“He loved his tattoos, the first was the Roman numerals of his cousin Luke, who we also remember today, and whom Adam often spent time at the grave, praying and reflecting.”

“Friendship to Adam was so important. Adam worked with John and Brian English in JB Structural Steel in Clerihan, and was well liked and respected as a colleague.

“They paid tribute to him saying, ‘we were all devastated to hear of Adam’s passing’. Not only was he a fantastic employee, but also a great friend. His enthusiasm and spark will be desperately missed by all,” said Fr Toomey.

Fr Toomey said Adam’s generosity in donating his organs, has made a remarkable impact on the lives of those he has changed, and saved for the better, even in his death. Burial was afterwards in St Patrick’s Cemetery.

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