Tributes paid for Irish man who died in Australia

Heartbreaking news.

Kevin Ruane from Ballybrit, Co Galway, was living in Perth when he unexpectedly passed away earlier this week.

Friends of the ‘lovely and pleasant lad’ have since started a GoFundMe to raise funds in order to bring him home to his family in the West of Ireland.

Writing under the appeal, Kevin's first cousin Barbara Hickey wrote: "It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kevin Ruane in Perth, Australia, a much-loved family member, and loyal friend and colleague.

"We are raising funds to assist with the costs associated with having Kevin brought back home to his devastated family. Our aim is to relieve some of the financial burden on Kevin’s family and to assist with the cost of having his personal belongings brought home.

"Any donations which you might be able to give will be greatly appreciated."

So far, the crowdfunding appeal has raised a mind-blowing €45,250 in less than 24 hours, after the original target of €10,000 was met shortly after the appeal went live.

Additional funds will be donated to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust, a trust which aims to alleviate the financial hardship of bereaved families repatriating the bodies of loved ones who have died suddenly abroad.

Kevin's RIP.ie death notice reads: "Kevin Ruane, Ballybrit, Galway / Perth, Australia, Tragically.

"Predeceased by his brother Adrian, his grandad Gerald Ruane (Balla) and grandmother Catherine O’Donnell (Achill). Beloved son of John and Kathleen, sister Aisling, grandmother Maura Ruane, grandfather John O’Donnell and extended family."

Friends of Kevin have paid tribute to his 'kind' and 'likeable' personality on social media.

One person wrote: "Devastated to learn of this. I got to know Kevin through a mutual friend and he instantly was just so nice and likeable.

"He would have a room in knots, laughing without any effort," he continued. "He was also a proper gentleman who could never do enough for you. He’s gone from the world far before his time, and it’s beyond heartbreaking that it’s happened."

Another added: "Kevin was an absolute gentleman and one of the kindest people you could ever meet."

"Kevin was a truly awesome person; always had a smile on his face. So many fond memories," commented a third.