BALCOMBE

BALCOMBE (Frederick) (Skerries) (July 12, 2007) - Today, Fred would have celebrated his 70th birthday. His wife Betty, son Stephen, daughters Amanda and Mary, brother Gerald, sisters-in-law Iris and Betty, brother-in-law Bill, together with their families, extend their warmest gratitude to all those who shared with us our grief on the tragic loss of our dearest Fred. We have been touched by the many acts of kindness shown to us at this most difficult time. To all those who attended the funeral, sent cards and floral tributes, please accept our warmest appreciation. It is hard to convey the heartfelt gratitude we feel to Michael McMahon, of Ballynacally, who was the first to arrive at the scene of the accident, who, despite some risk to himself, stayed with Fred and gave him comfort and hope during his final hour. We derive great solace from knowing Fred did not die alone. To Fred's friend and colleagues at Irish Helicopters and the wider helicopter community, his model aircraft, sailing and golfing friends, former colleagues from Rank Xerox and our friends and neighbours at Skerries, your kind support has been of great comfort to us. We gratefully appreciate the sympathy and tributes paid to Fred by the Commissioners of Irish Life, Bord Gais, the Northwestern Health Board, Donegal Airport, the ESB, Aer Lingus Celtic Helicopters, Gaelic Helicopters and P.D.G. Helicopters. To the Reverend Kingsley Long, Rocks Funeral Directors, Skerries Golf Club, thank you for your sensitive and considerate service. To Fr Tom O'Dea and Fr Joe Hourigan and the Parish of Ballynacally, we wish to thank you for remembering Fred in our prayers. To Dr Ralph of Kildysart and the Emergency Services of Co. Clare, we extend our gratitude for your endeavours to save Fred's life.Forever in our hearts, especially today.