A Belfast family has been hit by a second tragedy after the passing of Robert McCorkindale (38) a year after his young daughter died from a Strep A infection.
There had been an outpouring of sympathy in December 2022 when Stella-Lily McCorkindale (5) passed away in the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.
Shortly before her death, her devoted father had posted a picture of himself with her in intensive care as she was gravely ill.
A family notice said Mr McCorkindale died on Monday, also his 38th birthday, and described him as the “devoted dad of the late Stella-Lily, beloved son of Lorraine and the late Roy, cherished brother of Cheryl and Daniel.”
On Monday, his mother Lorraine was among many sharing emotional messages on social media.
“Today I had to say goodbye to my baby boy, my heart is broken, nothing prepares you for the loss of your child,” she said.
“Robert you are now back with your little princess. Love you son.”
His sister Cheryl commented: “My brother didn’t deserve what he was put through this last year but he’s now with his princess again just like he wanted.
“Robert was an amazing brother, son, uncle, cousin, friend but mostly he was the best daddy I have ever seen to Stella-lily.
“No one in our family will ever be the same again without him and Stella-lily but I’m so glad my mummy me and my kids had a special Christmas with him one last time he done that for us.
“I will make sure my kids never forget their uncle RaRa and how amazing he was.”
The 1st Shankill Somme Association said Mr McCorkindale had been one of their newest members.
“His enthusiasm and dedication were evident to all, making him a well-liked and keen member of our association,” a post on the group’s page read.
“Robert’s absence leaves a profound void within our community, and he will be sorely missed by all members. At this very sad time, our thoughts and heartfelt sympathies extend to the McCorkindale family.
“May they find comfort in the knowledge that Robert’s memory and contributions to our association will always be cherished and remembered.”
The funeral service is to be held on Tuesday at 10.30am from his mother’s home in Belfast before heading to Roselawn Crematorium for 12 noon.
