Read more - Family of Irish NY drowning victim devastated

An Irish father will  hold a memorial service for his son after identifying his body in New York. John Curran’s son, Eoin, drowned off Long Island on July 25 when 70 mph winds capsized his 23-foot boat.

The 30-year-old, IT worker was taking a sailing lesson, with the New York Sailing School,  in the deep waters off Long Island when the boat capsized.

His father is now making final preparations to see his son for the final time. “Yes, they found Eoin. We will be travelling to New York to hold a memorial service for him,” said John.

Although this process is painful for the family they have said that they are very grateful to the New York Coastguard for finding Eoin’s body.

John spoke about how important it was that they hold a memorial service for Eoin as soon as possible. He said “He had so many friends around the world who would like to read all the nice things he did. He was extremely talented and I miss him so much.” He said he felt it was important that he continue to speak about his son.

Eoin was one of three first-time sailors on the boat. He was not wearing a life-jacket when he, and an instructor, fell into the water. The instructor managed to climb back aboard and threw a float to Eoin, but it was already too late.

US law does not require that life jackets be worn, just that boats carry them.

Read more - Family of Irish NY drowning victim devastated