Grandfather (68) killed in chimney collapse was a ‘gentle giant’
TRALEE is in mourning today following the tragic death of well-known builder Tom Ross in a workplace accident on Saturday morning.
The much-loved 68-year-old father and grandfather died after a chimney collapsed on a building he was renovating on Ashe Street at 8am on Saturday. Five other men were injured in the accident and taken to University Hospital Kerry and University Hospital Cork, but their injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.
It is believed that Mr Ross was standing on the ground when the chimney collapsed and he was trapped underneath the rubble.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Originally from west Cork, Mr Ross lived in Britain previously, but had been living in Kerry for many years, and his home was in Fenit, just outside Tralee.
Tributes have been paid to the “gentle giant” who will be greatly missed.
Close friend Garry O’Donnell, who is the proprietor of Baily’s Corner, said that there was sadness across the town.
“He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was a gentle giant with the heart of a lion,” he said. “I went home last night and opened an expensive bottle of wine to Tom because he deserved it.”
He said Mr Ross always looked on the bright side of life and encouraged everyone to do the same.
Mr Ross was known as a hard worker who had worked on many projects in Tralee over the years. Many of his family also worked alongside him in his construction business.
“Tom would do anything for you,” added Mr O’Donnell “Everyone is saddened by his death.”
Mayor of Tralee Terry O’Brien said the news of Mr Ross’s death sent shockwaves across the town.
“The whole town is shocked. He is a big loss. He was a good grafter and a good employer.”
He extended his sympathy to Mr Ross’s family and friends on their tragic loss made more difficult so close to Christmas.
The scene of the accident remained cordoned-off last night and bouquets of flowers had been laid at the site in memory of him.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has begun an investigation into the circumstances of the accident.
The building on Ashe Street, which had been empty for some time, was being renovated to open as a pharmacy.
Work had taken place over the past few months on the building, which is close to the courthouse and alongside the Ashe Street medical centre.
Gardaí are also continuing their investigations into the accident.
A private funeral mass for Mr Ross is due to take place tomorrow in St Joseph’s Oratory, Fenit.
‘He is a big loss. He was a good grafter and a good employer’