THE GRIEVING widow of the Irish mountaineer who died near the summit of Mount Everest spoke of her unwavering support for his expedition during a service yesterday.
Hundreds of mourners attended the memorial Mass in Ballinakill, Co Laois, yesterday in honour of John Delaney (41).
Mr Delaney died just 50m (164ft) from the summit during an attempt to scale Mount Everest last weekend.
His remains are unlikely to be removed from the mountain given the high altitude.
His wife Orla, who gave birth to a baby girl on Wednesday, told mourners: “John was my husband, my hero, my best friend, the man I adore.” Ms Delaney attended the service along with her three children, Casper (3), Alexander (2) and baby Hope.
The service was also attended by Mr Delaney’s brother Chris, sister Geraldine and mother Marcella (Massey).
Ms Delaney spoke of her late husband’s passion for life, sport and mountaineering: “John led a rich varied successful life, a highly intelligent man, he dedicated himself wholly and completely to every task.”
She added: John and I were both very much aware of the risks involved.
“This was not a decision John made alone or took lightly, he went with my full blessing, unwavering support and unconditional love.”