Family pay tribute to 'sweet and kind' son killed in Summerhill road tragedy

The heartbroken family of 27-year-old Colin Tuite, who died in a hit and run collision in Summerhill last week have spoken of Colin's kindness, thoughtfulness and compassion.
Colin, from Dangan, Summerhill, was the much loved son of Noel and Anne Tuite and brother to Lorraine, Thomas and Yvonne. His death last Thursday evening shocked and stunned the local community.

(Colin with his siblings Lorraine, Thomas and Yvonne)

Colin's funeral mass took place in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Dangan, this morning and he was laid to rest afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
In an emotional tribute to Colin, recalling the sweet-natured, fun loving child he was and the wonderful young man he grew up to be, his devastated family said: “The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Colin is kindness. He was always so kind.
“A sweet-natured child, Colin was the youngest of four children, the baby of the family, full of love and laughter. His fun-loving nature ensured he will remain at the fore of the neighbourhood's childhood memories.
“His love of the swings, making mud-cakes with his sisters in the garage ‘café’ and his ability to give away hid-and-seek hiding places with uncontrollable giggles are fondly remembered by everyone that grew up with him.

(The scene of last Thursday's fatal collision in Summerhill)

“That sweetness, kindness, thoughtfulness and compassion remained the core of his personality into adulthood.”
Colin was an accomplished scholar, focused and determined throughout his studies. Following his degree at NUI Maynooth, he travelled to Korea and spent a year teaching primary school children to speak English.
During his time in Korea he spent his days off as a volunteer at The Friends of Aikwangwon school for disabled children. His empathy and consideration for others was the foundation of his character.
Following his gap year, Colin returned to his studies and successfully completed his Masters Degree, a huge source of pride to his family and friends. His dedication to his studies, to his family and to his friends, was a testament to the wonderful young man he had become.
“Colin was a huge animal lover and loved to spend time with his dogs. He was passionate, charismatic and loveable to the core. He wore his heart on his sleeve and his love for his family and friends was evident and clear always.
“We find peace knowing that he is still a light in our hearts. Always loved, never forgotten, Mammy, Daddy, Lorraine Yvonne and Thomas.”
Local councillor Joe Fox, who lives less than a mile away from the family, spoke of the shock and devastation in the community following the tragedy.
He said: “I know the family well. They are a lovely family. It is a terrible tragedy, the whole community is stunned. For something like this to happen, it is such a tragedy.
“There are no words you can say to people at a time like this.”

A man was arrested in connection with the incident yesterday and was being held at Trim Garda station.