CLASSMATES of young Rowan Fitzgerald who was killed in the Coventry bus crash have paid tribute to their much-loved and much-missed friend at his funeral.
The service was held earlier today (Thursday) at St Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in his hometown of Leamington.
The seven-year-old was on the upper deck of the bus when it crashed into a supermarket in Coventry city centre earlier this month.
Seventy-six year-old Nuneaton pensioner Dora Hancox who was walking past was also killed. Her funeral took place on Tuesday.
Rev Fr Noel Breslin, who conducted the service, said: “If we take a careful look at the life of Rowan we will see the impact he has had on all those whose lives he touched. Then we will see that he accomplished in his few years what many of us in a whole life time may struggle to achieve.
“We are keenly aware of what he meant to his mum and dad, to his brother – and his grandparents, and near relations. But his influence for goodness extended to his wider circle of friends especially his school class mates.”
Fr Breslin read tributes paid to Rowan by friends from Year Three at St Anthony’s Catholic Church in Sydenham.
“I really miss you but I will always remember you are always with me wherever I go,”said one.
Another friend commented: “Saying goodbye makes me cry and sad. I loved your smile and glasses.”
And another added: “You taught me how to play Pokemon. I will not forget you, see you in heaven buddy.”
Fr Breslin added: “The staff of St Anthony’s also expressed their deep sadness on Rowan’s death.
“They talk of his winning smile, his quiet love of learning, his playfulness and joy in taking a full and active part in everything the school had to offer. He was an exceptional friend, great fun, adventurous, generous and unfailingly kind and caring to all.”
