Hubert Letniowski from Doughiska, Galway city, passed away following a short illness on Monday, December 1, in Crumlin Hospital, Dublin, surrounded by his loving family.

He will be deeply missed by his heartbroken parents, Krystian and Beata, and by his beloved brother and friend, Filip, as well as by his extended family and wide circle of friends.

Many in the Galway community have paid tribute to Hubert following his passing, as the young man is remembered as a kind, gentle, respectful person with a “wonderful love” for football.

Merlin Woods Sports Club shared on social media: “Hubert was one of the very first young players to join our club, arriving with his brother Filip and helping to shape the spirit of what Merlin Woods Sports Club would become. From the dressing room to match days, from lifting cups and medals with his teammates to joining us on club trips, Hubert was woven into the fabric of our early days. He was not just a player — he was family.

“Hubert had a wonderful love for football and a special passion for attending Galway United matches. He was, without question, one of the nicest boys you could ever meet — kind, gentle, respectful, and loved by everyone around him. His loss is deeply felt by all coaches, teammates, families, and friends who were lucky enough to know him.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Letniowsky, Sikora, and Dzeidzina families, and to our wider Polish community, on his heartbreaking passing. Our thoughts, support, and prayers are with you all during this incredibly difficult time.”

Merlin College said: “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our 3rd Year student, Hubert Letniowski after a short illness. Hubert was a valued member of the Merlin College community, and his loss is felt profoundly by students, staff, and all who knew him.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Hubert’s family and friends during this difficult time. We extend our heartfelt condolences and support to them.

“The school will provide guidance and resources for any students who may need assistance in coping with this loss. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the school for support. May Hubert rest in peace.”

The community also decided to come together and help Hubert’s family bring him back home to Poland, where he will be laid to rest.

With a target of €20,000, the GoFundMe set up by Merlin Woods Sports Club raised over €17,000 in just two days and donations continue to come in.

The GoFundMe page reads: “It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we share the passing of Hubert Letniowski, a bright and kind-hearted 15-year-old boy.

“Hubert lived in Galway City and from his early years was deeply involved in the local community – especially his beloved football club, Merlin Woods – where he was cherished by players, coaches, and friends alike.

“His warm smile and gentle spirit brought joy to everyone he met, and his loss has left a void that can never be filled.

“As a community, we are truly devastated by Hubert’s passing. Together—through our local schools, sports club, and community resource centre—we are coming together to support Hubert’s family during this incredibly difficult time.

“We have created this GoFundMe to assist with funeral expenses as Hubert’s family prepares to repatriate him to Poland.

“Any contribution, no matter the size, means more than words can express. Thank you all for your kindness, support, and generosity.”

To donate, you can visit the GoFundMe page here.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday December 9, at 4pm in The Good Shepherd Parish Church, Unit 2, Doughiska Road, Galway. A burial will take place in Poland at a later date.