The entire local community was plunged into grief on Wednesday August 5th, 2009 when Simon Delaney lost his life on Gallon Lake. Known to all as a gentle giant, the brilliant young Killinkere and Cavan goalkeeper died in the most selfless and courageous act of bravery. The 21-year-old from Stramaquerty lost his life alongside Matthew Gibbons (20) from Dublin as the pair tried to rescue a party of people after a boat had capsized on the lake. A promising young footballer who had already achieved more than most people can even dream about, Simon had represented Killinkere and Virginia College as well as the county at U16, minor and U21 levels. He will be remembered not just as an outstanding goalkeeper but also as a superb human being - responsible, gifted, loyal, courageous and friendly. Simon was already well on his way towards achieving his dream of playing for the Cavan seniors at championship level. His father Joe had brought him to play his first underage match when he was only six years old, and he was actually en route to a junior match between Killinkere and Laragh on that fateful day when he lost his life in such a heroic manner. Gaelic football had been a huge part of his life and a Guard of Honour was provided at Simon's funeral by members of Killinkere GFC and Virginia College on one of the saddest days the parish has ever seen.