Second World War veteran who was Northern Ireland's oldest man is laid to rest as 'hero' after dying aged 107

See more Daily Mail on Google - save us as a Preferred Source Published: 13:23 EDT, 19 September 2026 | Updated: 13:25 EDT, 19 September 2026 The funeral of Second World War veteran Norman Irwin, who died at the age of 107, has heard how he lived a remarkable life and was a 'hero' in the world.Mr Irwin, Northern Ireland's oldest man, served in North Africa during the Second World War before playing an active role in his local community. He helped establish the Coleraine Winemakers Club, was one of the founders of Coleraine Rotary Club and also helped set up the Agivey Anglers Association.His contribution to the community was recognised last year when he received the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the King's Birthday Honours.The great–great–grandfather's funeral took place at New Row Presbyterian Church in Coleraine on Saturday, where his coffin was draped in the flag of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, the British Army corps in which he served.A standard–bearer, guard of honour, bugler and piper also took part in the thanksgiving service, which was led by Rev Jonny McKane.During the service, McKane spoke about Mr Irwin's long and active life, highlighting the health and independence he maintained well into his later years.Rev McKane said: 'In 1942, Norman's natural mechanical ability was recognised, and he transferred to the newly formed Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, where he eventually rose to the rank of sergeant. Norman Irwin, Northern Ireland's oldest man, has been remembered as a remarkable Second World War veteran and much–loved community figure following his death aged 107 Irwin was awarded a British Empire Medal in last year's King's Birthday Honours. He is pictured being presented with his British Empire Medal (BEM) at Hillsborough Castle Mr Irwin served as an engineer with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) in North Africa'In 1945, he was posted to Hawke in the Scottish borders, and that posting was to be significant in many ways. But it would change his life because it was there that he met his future wife, Margaret.'Norman and Margaret were married in 1946 and blessed with four children – David, Elizabeth, Margaret, and Joy.'Perhaps one of the remarkable things about Norman was simply the health and independence that he enjoyed throughout such a long life.'Latter years, he lived in the Cottage Care Home, where birthday celebrations became something of an annual event, often attracting considerable attention and one or two guests upon it.'Norman passed away peacefully at the remarkable age of 107.'His grandson Chris said: 'Standing here today to speak about Papa is both a heartbreak and a huge privilege. He lived life so fully, and with so much laughter. He became involved in numerous community organisations in Coleraine, including the Winemakers Club, Rotary Club and Agivey Anglers Association At his funeral in Coleraine, family and friends celebrated his long life, independence and sense of humour His grandson Chris described him as a 'hero' to the wider world but simply 'Papa' to his family'To the wider world, he was a hero. He was a Second World War veteran who served across North Africa as an engineer, a community pillar.'But to us, it was just Papa. The man who could build or fix absolutely anything.'The man whose humour kept every single one of us on our toes right to the very end. Papa's mind was always working, always innovating.'Long before DIY culture existed, Papa was doing it.'Rest easy, Papa. We love you. We miss your wits, and we'll keep your legacy alive in everything we do.'