The hugely popular garda a much loved husband, father, neighbour and friend who was a significant part of the local community
Dermot and Caitríona Bland with their children Eva, Killian, Conor, Kian, Jimmy, Seán, Daniel and Callum(Image: GoFundMe)
There has been a huge outpouring of support for the family of a serving Garda and dad-of-eight from Co Longford who died suddenly earlier this month.
Garda Dermot Bland, who was serving in Ballyjamesduff in Cavan, lived in Killoe, Co Longford and was formerly of Fenagh, Co Leitrim.
His unexpected passing on Tuesday, August 11 has left his grieving wife Caitriona and their cherished children Eva, Killian, Conor, Kian, Jimmy, Sean, Daniel and Callum heartbroken.
Following Garda Bland’s sudden death, a family friend set up a GoFundMe to ‘help ease the burden on this devastated family.’
The family friend wrote on the fundraiser page: “We are deeply saddened to share that our friend Garda Dermot Bland has passed away unexpectedly.
“Our hearts are broken for his wife Caitriona and eight beautiful children.
“We remember Dermot as a wonderful, hardworking, kind, husband, father, neighbour and friend.
“He was a big part of the Killoe community and he will be very sadly missed.”
Garda Dermot Bland(Image: RIP.ie)
Organisers confirmed that all money raised through the appeal will go directly to Caitriona and the family, with people being encouraged to share the fundraiser among their workplaces, community groups and wider networks.
So far, an incredible €127,000 has been raised of a target of €130k from more than 1,5000 generous donors.
If you wish to donate, you can find the GoFundMe page here.
Tributes continued to be paid to the popular garda, who has been remembered as “a decent and kind man who always had time for people”.
One mourner said: “Heartfelt Sympathy to Caitríona Eva Killian Conor Kian Jimmy Sean & Callum to James, Walter & the extended Bland & Hughes Family on the untimely death of Dermot. He was a wonderful neighbour who treated everyone with respect & kindness we all will miss him greatly & his passing leaves a deep void in our neighbourhood. May you rest in eternal peace Dermot.
While another person added: “So sorry to hear the passing of dear Dermot. An absolute gentleman who we all had the privilege to meet and start our training with in Templemore almost 20 years ago. Thinking of Caitriona and all his family at this very sad difficult time. Rest in Heavenly Peace Dermot.”
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