A VICTIM of a recent drowning in Ennis has been remembered as a man “who brought joy everywhere he went”.

On Saturday last, Samir Kaul (49) died after diving into the water from the Old Pier at Ballyalla Lake. He did not resurface prompting a reaction from young man nearby who jumped in and brought him ashore.

Vigorous efforts to resuscitate him and lasted until ambulance paramedics arrived to the popular amenity on the outskirts of Ennis. Samir was pronounced dead at the scene and removed to University Hospital Limerick for a post-mortem. As well as the Gardaí, the local lifeguard, the National Ambulance Service and Irish Coast Guard were all alerted.

It is believed that Samir hit his head when diving into the pier. The Indian native was due to celebrate his 50th birthday in October, he had lived on the Kilrush Rd in Ennis for a number of years and was a member of the Foundation Ministries Ireland church.

Reverend Albert Chinwe Obadeyi of Foundation Ministries Ireland in Ennis spoke of the sadness and shock within the community. He described Samir as a “lovely man who brought joy everywhere he went”. He added, “We never expected such a tragedy. It has caught us all by surprise”.

“Samir attended our services regularly and he was a lovely man. Everyone enjoyed his presence. After church when we would play music Samir was always up dancing. He brought joy everywhere he went. He was a joy to be with and had a peaceful presence about him. He’d do his best to help in any way. He was well known and very popular. We will do all we can to help and support his family,” Rev Albert added.

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