Tributes paid to much loved Cork LGBT advocate
‘HE WAS A TOWER OF STRENGTH TO THOSE WHO NEEDED HELP’
MANY moving tributes have been paid to the hugely popular gay rights campaigner Dave Roche who passed away suddenly at his home near Macroom last Sunday.
Mr Roche was a founder member of the Cork LGBT Pride Festival, CEO of the Cork Gay Project, a board member of the national LGBT helpline and a key driving force behind LGBT Awareness Week.
In a message posted to their Facebook page after the news of Mr Roche’s death broke the organisers of the Cork Pride Festival summed up the sentiments of many saying they were “utterly heartbroken” at the passing of their “beloved friend and colleague.”
“Dave was a true gentleman and passionately devoted his life to helping others, touching the live of many. Our love and heartfelt condolences go to Dace’s partner Paul and his family and friends.”
Fine Gael Senator Jerry Buttimer also took to social media to express his sadness at the passing of a man who he said had “challenged us to think differently and act accordingly.”
“I’m sad, upset and lost on the loss of a trojan LGBT advocate and a friend. David John Roche inspired us and we will be forever thankful. We will remember his smile, his infectious laugh and witty yet insightful comments,” wrote Senator Buttimer.
“Personally, his desire for fun and ability to make us laugh along with his immense ability to assist and improve the lives of so many whilst bringing change will be a memory. As the torch passes to a new generation, his legacy will remain for all to see. The smile will remain and the laughter will continue. Sleep well Dave.”
Arthur Leahy, a founder of the Cork Gay Community Project and long-time friend and colleague, worked with Mr Roche on advocacy issues at a time when homosexuality was still criminalised in Ireland.
He recalled how his friend’s early style involved “kicking the door in, shouting and roaring” and how over the years his style changed and he became one of the country’s most influential advocates for LGBT rights.
Broadcaster PJ Coogan described Mr Roche as a “tower of strength” to those who needed help or advice.
“To those who dared speak ill of the LGBT community, he was an articulate and fearless adversary,” said Mr Coogan.
As an interviewee on radio he was always a joy – bright, informed, sharp as a knife and when the moment called for it, outrageously funny. RIP Dave.”
Mr Roche was also a key driving force behind the Yes Equality Cork campaign ahead of the 2015 same-sex marriage referendum, becoming the face of the campaign in North Cork.
Speaking to the Corkman at he arrived at the Ballincollig count centre a beaming Mr Roche said the resounding Yes vote was a signal that the LGBT community did not “exist as a separate nation.”
“We are part of this nation and this vote serves to really verify that. We are part of every urban and rural community, office block, garda station and army barracks. We are everywhere in the community and today is really a resounding acceptance of that fact. I am incredibly proud to be Irish today,” he said in a voice quivering with emotion.
Mr Roche, who is survived by his partner Paul, mother Phil, siblings, extended family and wide circle of friends was cremated on Wednesday at the Crematorium in Ringaskiddy.