He was one of two people killed in a fatal explosion
HEARTBREAKING tributes have been paid to a “devoted” Irish dad who was killed in a mining accident in Australia last month.

Patrick Ambrose Mullen, 59, was one of two people who lost their lives in the “devastating” explosion at the Endeavor mine in Cobar, about 700km northwest of Sydney.

A woman, aged in her 20s, was brought to the surface following the underground explosion on October 28, but she sadly passed away a short time later.

The Cavan dad, known as Ambie, has been described as a “deeply loved husband, best friend and soulmate”.

Patrick Ambrose is survived by his sons Darragh, Conor, Tadhg and Oisín and wife Regina.

He has also been remembered as a “cherished brother” to Mary Kevin and Dympna and a “treasured brother-in-law”.

In a death notice the family added: “[He was a] much respected and admired uncle, nephew, godfather, cousin, mentor, father-figure and loyal friend.”

Mullen’s funeral will be held in Cobar, New South Wales, Australia on November 14 which will “celebrate” his life

And his family have confirmed a memorial service will also be held in Cootehill in Ireland on December 22.

Ambrose, from Cootehill, relocated to Australia in the mid 1980s and had been living there with his wife Regina, from County Offaly, and their four boys.

He has been fondly remembered in Cootehill as a skilled footballer who played for the county at minor and senior level before moving down under.

In a moving tribute, Cavan County Board said there was “deep shock and sadness” in GAA circles when the news of Ambrose’s passing broke this week.

LOCAL SPORTS STAR

They said: “Ambie is fondly remembered and deeply mourned by his many friends in his native Cootehill, in Cavan and Australia.

“His passing evoked many memories among old playing teammates and supporters of his contribution to his native Cootehill Celtic and the Cavan county teams.

“Ambie first played for Cavan minors in 1983 and he captained the team in 1984. He also played with Cavan under 21s in 1984 and 1985 and he was called into the senior panel in 1984.

“He was a regular with Cavan throughout the later 1980s playing in the full-back line usually at left full-back.

“He was a dedicated, highly skilful player who was a great reader of the game with keen positional awareness. He gave everything to the blue jersey and is remembered for his sportsmanship.”

The board added: “The officers of Cavan County Board GAA offer their deepest sympathies to his wife Regina and their four boys Darragh, Conor, Tadgh and Oisin, his brother Kevin and his sisters Mary and Dympna and their extended families on their great loss.

“We also remember the players and members of the Cootehill Celtic club at this sad time.”

‘FRIENDLY’ MAN

Fine Gael Cllr Carmel Brady, who had gone to the same school as Ambrose, said Ambrose is from a well-known family in Cootehill.

She said: “He was a kind, friendly young man, who excelled at all sports.   

“He left Cootehill in the mid 80s to travel and found a new home and life down under in Australia. 

“I wish to extend my deepest sympathy to his immediate family in Australia and his family here in Cootehill. Rest in peace Ambie.”