Family "inconsolable" after Robert Dunne’s "totally unexpected" death

The death of Rob Dunne, the son of the late businessman Ben Dunne, came "totally unexpected," leaving his family "distraught and shocked," a close friend of the family has told Extra.ie 

Robert, who has been living in New York for the past two decades, where he had forged a career as a highly regarded attorney in a top US law firm, passed away this week, leaving his family at home in Ireland, particularly his mother Mary, "inconsolable."

A close friend of the Dunne family told Extra.ie: "Rob’s death was totally unexpected. Rob was very close to his mum, Mary, so she is understandably heartbroken."

His death comes almost two years after the passing of his father, who suffered a fatal heart attack while on holiday in Dubai.

Ben Dunne’s sudden death in 2023 is understood to have hit Rob hard, as the father and son were said to have had a close bond.

"Rob probably would have been most like Ben in many ways. They shared the same sense of humour. So Ben’s death hit Rob hard," said the source.

Robert had been living in New York and was a successful attorney there. He is survived by his mother, Mary, and siblings Mark, Caroline, and Nicholas.

The Brehon Law Society of New York paid tribute to Mr. Dunne on Monday, writing: "It is with heavy hearts and deep respect and remembrance that we announce the passing of Robert 'Rob' Dunne, Brehon President Emeritus.

"Rob’s unwavering dedication to justice, his leadership within the Brehon Law Society, and his enduring commitment to the Irish-American legal community leave a lasting impression."

Taking to social media, another person wrote: "Dear Rob, gone way too soon. Our condolences to Mrs Dunne, Rob’s brothers and sister and extended family and friends."

Another added: "Rob was such a smart and funny guy who was so passionate about his music. His passing is a huge shock and tremendous loss to all who knew him."

His death notice reads: "Robert Dunne (New York, USA and formerly of Castleknock, Dublin 15) August 1st 2025 peacefully in New York.

"Darling son of Mary and the late Ben, dearly loved brother of Mark, Caroline and Nicholas and beloved uncle of Ben, Katie, Pearl and Joseph

"Sadly missed by his loving mother, brothers, sister, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, relatives and a large circle of friends."

Mr. Dunne will repose at Cunningham’s Funeral Home, Church Avenue, Blanchardstown on Sunday evening, August 10.

His funeral will take place at St Mochta’s Church, Porterstown, Clonsilla, on Monday morning, followed by burial in Castleknock Churchyard.

*This article was originally published on Extra.ie.