Pa O’Dwyer: Strongman 'legend' dies aged 40 as Eddie Hall leads tributes to 'bigger than life' star
A legendary strongman has died at the age of just 40, leaving behind a partner and three young children.
The death of Pa O’Dwyer was announced yesterday (Saturday January 3). His cause of death remains unknown at the time of writing.
His death was announced by the organisers behind professional strongman tour Giants Live. A statement posted on the official website read: “Giants Live is devastated to have to share the news that strength legend, family man & all around amazing human Pa O’Dwyer has died at the age of 40.
“Pa was a true strongman but an even greater human being and, without doubt, one of the funniest, most unforgettable characters the world has ever known. He brought strength, laughter and warmth wherever he went and truly was one of life’s larger-than-life personalities. Anyone who met him will surely have a story to tell.”
A short time later a Go Fund Me page was set up by fellow strongman icon Eddie Hall, who wrote that he had created the fundraiser “because he (O’Dwyer) deserves to be paid back for all he has given us in this world.”
O’Dwyer leaves behind his partner Layna and their three children; Sienna, Rocco, and Freddy. According to the tribute written by Giants Live, he would often say he loved them more than life itself.
The Giants Live statement ended: “From everyone at Giants Live and we are sure we speak on behalf of the entire Strongman community:Rest in Power, Pa. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. With our love.”
On his GoFundMe page, Hall, who is himself a father-of-four offered prayers and condolences to Pa and his “beautiful” family. He added in tribute: “He’s made us all laugh. He’s made all think. He’s made us all better people in some way through his bigger than life character.”
At the time of writing, on the morning of Sunday January 4, almost £100,000 has been raised towards a £130,000 fundraising goal, less than 24 hours after the page was created.
Hall has himself donated £2,500, while the top donation is currently £8,000 from anonymous donor.
Many fans have also left messages of condolence on the fundraising page. One said: “Thank you for all the wonderful things you did, Pa. The world is less bright without you. Easy as you go.” Another wrote: “Thank you for having everyone's back, being a thoroughly decent human and an inspiration to so many in the strength and strongman world.”
O’Dwyer, also known as the Limerick Lion professionally, became the second Irishman in history to win the UK's Strongest Man. He was a legend in strength sports in Ireland, winning Ireland's Strongest Man an unprecedented five times. He went on to represent his beloved Ireland in the World's Strongest Man.
You can donate by visiting the Pa O’Dwyer family GoFundMe page.