MOURNERS have gathered for the funeral of murdered Michael Gaine this morning.
The well-known farmer was last seen at a Centra shop in the Kerry town on March 20 – around 8kms from his Carrig East-based farm.
He was last seen buying credit in his local Centra store in Kenmare that morning.
A large scale multi-agency search was launched shortly after.
The remains of the farmer were discovered on the evening of Friday, May 16, after a slurry spreader jammed.
When workers examined it, they realised there were bones and human tissue inside.
Further remains were found in two fields where the slurry was spread, and in the tank the liquid substance was taken from.
His funeral is taking place at Holy Cross Church in Kenmare.
It will be followed by a funeral cortège around Kenmare town.
‘Mike’ will be buried at a private resting place afterwards.
An online death notice, posted by Gaine’s “heartbroken” wife and sisters, paid tribute to the “fondly remembered” 56-year-old.
The notice reads: “Sadly missed and fondly remembered by his heartbroken wife Janice, sisters Noreen and Catherine, nieces Emma and Rachael, nephews Jamie and Mark, brother-in-law Seán, aunt Noreen (Fitzpatrick, Cork), his close friends DJ and Shane and his wide circle of loyal friends in the Farming and Rallying community and beyond, cousins, in-laws and extended family.
“May you rest in peace Michael.”
A huge number of people have paid their respects to Michael and sent their condolences to his heartbroken family.
One person said: “It’s beyond sad and cruel to lose a loved one in this way. Mike is in heaven at peace.
“We pray for those who loved him – now grieving such an enormous loss.
“Try to stay strong and know that you have the prayers of a nation behind you to help you.”
Another added: “My sincere condolences to Mike’s wife and family and friends on his tragic passing.
“May Mike rest in peace and may everyone support his wife, sisters and extended family at this difficult time.”
Last weekend, Gardai confirmed that the remains found on farmland belonging to Mike had been formally been identified as his.
Gardai said in a statement: “Human remains found at farmland at Carrig East, Kenmare have been identified as being the remains of Michael Gaine.
“Garda continue to appeal to the public for assistance in this investigation.
“The Garda investigation team can be contacted at Killarney Garda Station on 064 667 1160, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or speak with any member of An Garda Siochana.”
