Funeral arrangements for WW2 hero Coleraine's Norman Irwin BEM

Mr Irwin’s family announced the passing of the Coleraine man on September 2.

Mr Irwin’s grandson Chris made the announcement on behalf of the family on social media, saying: “It is with profound sadness, that our family announces the passing of my grandfather, Sergeant Norman Irwin BEM.

"A proud WWII veteran who served across North Africa and Italy with the Coleraine Battery, Royal Artillery and REME, Norman was Ireland and Northern Ireland’s oldest man, a British Empire Medal recipient, and a pillar of the local community.

"To the world, he was a hero and a piece of history, but to us, he was simply Papa. His warmth, wit, and wisdom guided our family for generations and always with a glass of Bushmills.

"Norman exemplified the REME motto, Arte et Marte ("By Skill and By Fighting"). "Rest easy. Your watch is finally over, but your legacy will live on in every single one of us.”

A family notice described Mr Irwin as a “dearly loved husband of the late Margaret, much loved father of David, Elizabeth and the late Margaret and Joy; adored and much loved grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather”.

A Service of Thanksgiving will be held in New Row Presbyterian Church, Coleraine on Saturday, September 19, at 11.30am followed by interment in Coleraine Cemetery. Family flowers only with donations requested for the Community Rescue Service.

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, Councillor Dawn Huggins paid tribute to Mr Irwin saying: “Norman, a World War II veteran who served his country, was held in such high esteem throughout the Borough.

“He participated in many Council events over the years, and we also hosted several Mayors’ receptions for this humble man, who lived for 107 years.

“We will miss his humour and wit, his years of wisdom and most of all his anecdotes on how to live a long life. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family circle and friends at this difficult time.”

Causeway Coast and Glens Council’s Veterans’ Champion, Councillor Philip Anderson added: “It is with profound sadness that I learnt of the passing of WWII veteran Norman Irwin.

"I join with the Mayor, residents and friends throughout the Borough in remembering this most humble of men, who was an inspiration to us all.

“My thoughts are with his family.”

East Londonderry independent MLA Claire Sugden also paid tribute to Mr Irwin saying: “Norman served his country during the Second World War, including in North Africa and Italy. We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to Norman and his generation for their service and the sacrifices they made.

“Norman remained very much part of his local community throughout his long life. Last year he received the British Empire Medal for his voluntary work in Coleraine, which was a lovely recognition of the contribution he made over many years.

“My sincerest condolences to Norman’s family and friends. There will be great sadness at his passing, but also much pride in a life that gave so much to his country and his community.”