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Thousands raised for family of Irish father-of-two Sean Maher who died in Canada car crash

A FUND has been started to support the family of the Irish father-of-two who was killed in a car crash in Calgary, Canada.

Sean ‘Slinger’ Maher, 39, was travelling northwest of the city on Stoney Trail southbound on Sunday, February 19 when the incident happened.

According to Calgary Police, the vehicle veered left onto the hard shoulder, rode up onto the cable barrier and crashed into the concrete base of the support pillar for the overpass.

Mr Maher was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Calgary Police Service Traffic Section is investigating the collision and have said that speed is considered to be a factor in the crash.

Mr Maher had been in Canada for three years and is survived by his fiancée Leanne and young twin sons Ralph and Harry in Canada and his mother Bridie, brothers Brian and Colm and sister Sandra in Ireland.

A GoFundMe page to fundraise forMr Maher's family has been started by friend Eimear Bridget O'Neill.

"I am raising money for Leane and her family to help with costs associated with the devastating passing of her wonderful partner Sean Maher.

"Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.

"The money will go directly to the family and will help them cover costs such as flights to and from Ireland, wage loss and funeral costs."

So far, the fund has raised over $38,000 of its $45,000 goal and Ms O'Neill has said she is overwhelmed by the donations.

"I am overwhelmed by all of your generous donations.

"When I set this up for the family I had no idea people would respond so amazingly to this.

"I am increasing the goal to help the family as much as possible with flights, loss of wages, funeral costs.

"I can not thank you all enough for your generosity and support. Leane and Sean's family will feel very loved and supported by you all I am sure. Thank you so so much."

The scene of the car crash in which Mr Maher died. (Picture: CTV)

Alan Nolan, PRO pf the GAA club and friend of Mr Maher, told The Irish Post yesterday that Sean was “a true gentleman.”

“Sean was a true gentleman, and the biggest softy at heart you would ever meet.

“He would give you the shirt off your back without even asking.

“He was the best man to score from the sideline and miss it from the 14 in front of the goal.

“A true friend and will be sadly missed.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs have said they have not received any requests for consular assistance, but they stand ready to provide assistance if requested.