Coalisland man who tragically died in fire to be laid to rest on Friday

Adrian McCann, who was found dead at his home in Barrack Street, Coalisland. Photo courtesy of Clonoe Gallery

The much loved 52-year-old, leaves behind his wife Triona, children Sinead, Una, Aidan and Niall and a large extended family.

A number of sports clubs have paid fond tributes to him, while his family’s business, McCann Fuels has closed until Saturday.

“We would like to thank everyone for their support and prayers may he Rest in Peace,” they said along with the message.

Craigavon Darts league posted on Facebook: “On behalf of the committee and members of the league including the Celtic darts team we would like to send our condolences to Celtic captain Gérard Crewe and family on the passing of his nephew Adrian McCann from Coalisland. May he rest in peace.”

A number of local GAA clubs have also paid their respects.

Mr McCann was one of a large family who have had a long association with the GAA in Tyrone and, more locally, with the Derrylaughan Kevin Barry’s GAC.

Adrian represented the club at all levels and “travelled the length and breadth of the country as a referee”, said a Kevin Barry’s spokesperson.

“Everyone at Derrylaughan Kevin Barrys GAC would like to extend our sincerest sympathies to the McCann family following the passing of Adrian.”

Stewartstown Harps, said: “The club expresses sympathy to the McCann family, Drumcairn Ballygittle Road, on the death of Adrian - father of our former youth players Sinead, Una, Niall and Aidan.”

While Brocagh Camogie Club posted: “It is with great sadness we learn of the sad passing of Adrian McCann RIP. Our thoughts and prayers are with our team mates Sinead and Una with Triona, Aidan and Niall.

“Our deepest sympathy is extended to them and also to the whole McCann family circle. St Brigid pray for him.”

Mid Ulster Sinn Fein MLA, Michelle O’Neill, also expressed her sympathy to the family of the popular father-of-four.

“The whole community is stunned by the death of Adrian,” said Mrs O’Neill.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the entire family at what is a very difficult and sad time for them all.

“He was a lovely fella. He loved the GAA and he loved his children, two girls and two boys – it’s such a tragic loss of life.”

A PSNI spokesman said enquiries were continuing to establish how Mr McCann died.

The Fire and Rescue Service said crews attended after receiving a call at about noon yesterday.

“Tragically one man was found deceased at the scene. No action was taken by firefighters as the fire was already out,” a spokesman said.

“The incident has been passed through to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.”