A big-hearted community has come together to raise more than half the money needed towards a funeral for a Polish man who died in tragic circumstances.
Mariusz Ejdys was found dead in an abandoned mill in Buncrana on Thursday evening last.
Mariusz, who was in his 30s and known locally as Mario, is thought to have frozen to death following sub-zero temperatures for a number of nights.
Gardai are still trying to determine the cause of Mario’s death and are awaiting the results of a post mortem which was carried out at Letterkenny University Hospital.
It is also thought that alcohol may have been a factor in his death.
Now the local community around the Inishowen Peninsula, where he lived for many years, have come together to help his family bury Mario.
So far a Go Fund Me campaign has raised almost €1,000 of a targeted €2,000 needed.
Locals who knew Mario have left messages of support for his family as well as recalling happier times with the man who came to live amongst them.
Local county councillor Jack Murray said the community was in shock at Mario’s death.
“It is simply a tragedy and out thoughts and prayers are with his family at this trying time,” said the Sinn Fein councillor.
He added “He seemed to be a quiet man who kept himself to himself but was very respected with the community.”
Local Polish woman Karolina Walczak is also helping with donations to Mario’s funeral with donations also being left at the local Polish Shop in the town.
It is hoped that a mass in Mario’s memory will also be said in the town in the coming days.
If you would like to donate to Mario’s funeral, visit www.gofundme.com/help-with-mariusz-ejdys-funeral.
