tributes
Posted by Caitlin O'Hanlon on May 30, 2008
I first met Trent in a nightclub in Galway city. He was working (as per usual according to him) and I was partying with friends (also as per usual according to him). That was one year ago this weekend and I can hardly believe I only had the honour of knowing this great man for such a short period of time. In those twelve months Trent and I became work mates, friends, and even dated for a brief while (though our equally stubborn natures made us quickly realize we were definitely better off as friends!). But it was the last role that Trent played in my life that was most important. He was my protector. Arriving in East Africa in mid-March I knew that being a white woman in Kenya was a risky undertaking, even in a relatively neutral area like Mombasa, and the slight fear that I had stepping off that plane was an entirely new experience for me. But I need not have had a worry at all. For 15 days straight Trent, who had generously agreed to do photographs for my work with an Irish-Kenyan charity, didn’t leave my side. We lived together, we shopped together, we laughed together, and we celebrated together. He was my rock through some of the toughest experiences I had ever endured and my savior when all I needed was a good laugh and a hard drink. I will never, ever forget the amazing journey we shared over those two weeks, or the incredible year when I was blessed enough to have him in my life. I hope you are all very proud, of both Trent and of yourselves. You raised an incredible son and a true gentleman, he truly was a testament to his family. He will be greatly missed by many here in Galway city and beyond. My thoughts and prayers are with you all x
Posted by Arnaud Nilwik on May 30, 2008
From the Netherlands. Once we meet again Trent. For shure.
Posted by Mary and Ross Walker on May 30, 2008
Dear Trish and family Had a message from Betty to tell me your sad news.Words are never easy in times like this but our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Lots of love mary
Posted by Oonagh Montague on May 30, 2008
Trent, From the first time we met you in Galway you became an instant friend. You were a man who let everyone be themselves. That is rare thing Trent Keegan. No judgment, no preconceptions, just a listening ear and that constant hint of a mischievous smile about to break. We had great nights in and great nights out with you. Some nights you’d come home with a cockamaymee recipe you’d heard of and rustle it up for us to enjoy. Oh boy, there were hits and there were misses Trent, but we ate the lot of them, all washed down with a bottle of wine and a night of chat. We teased you unmercifully but you gave as good as you got. Barry used to give you lifts home on the back of his Vespa, all six foot seven of you wrapped around the tiny bike, the pair of you chugging up Taylor’s Hill like Little and Large. You were there when we got married, taking our photos, charming our families, all while asking me to point out my single friends. You gave hugs like no one else. You had time for everyone. You were a dyed in the wool gentleman. A gentleman with a tongue piercing. The thought that your gangling, adorable goofy self isn’t still out there is so incredibly sad. There aren’t enough words to explain how terrible it is that you’re gone. We’ll miss you Trent. Everyone will. Oonagh and Barry
Posted by Louise Davidson on May 30, 2008
I have known Trent for many years particularly from our days in New Plymouth getting up to all sorts of high-jinx. The loss of Trent is just so hard to comprehend. He was one of the most kind, happy, inspirational people I have ever known. The world has lost a true gentleman and a special friend. Mum said she saw a rainbow over your mums house yesterday and we just know it was your way of saying you\'re ok and are in a better place. Heavens tallest and most smiley angel!! Will always remember you with a warm glow in my heart. Love you Trent. Lou
Posted by Tracey Ferguson on May 30, 2008
I had the honour of being Trents girlfriend before he left to do what he had to do in Kenya. He is a rare pure soul and those of us who were lucky enough to have known him will forever cherish every kiss, every hug and every smile. He ended his last email with these words ‘The only reason we are put on this world is to be happy so make the most of it’. He did, and though our hearts are broken, we will try to do the same. Tracey X
Posted by Reg on May 30, 2008
I remember the first time I met Trent. It was at one of those faceless Gala events. There was a soccer match in progress and I was shooting it. I couldnt help but notice the tall, very tall individual shooting opposite me. I gave him the nod of hello but that wasnt enough for Trent. He bounded over, \"G\'day mate , Trent Keegan\" In seconds we were chatting away about Galway and photography and in,what I discovered later, typical upfront Trent fashion he asked advice how to get work in Galway as a freelance photographer. I told him and traded numbers with him. What I always liked and respected about Trent was his honesty. If he wanted to know something he asked it, if he thought someone had a problem with him he faced it straight away. He was unique in this town, actually he was unique full stop. Shine on mate, your light burned out too soon but it brighter than most
Posted by Janette Barclay on May 30, 2008
My family,living in Edinburgh, were loving friends of this young man. Trent was their Wedding Photographer in December at their reception in Edinburgh. He was deeply loved by this circle of friends. Thanks for your generosity, kindness, love, and amazing photos, Trent. Janette, Mount Maunganui
Posted by pierre alozie on May 30, 2008
Having grown up in Nairobi in the 70's I am sad, so sad that this country that nurtured me as turned against a genuine human that came there with light in his heart. He has tried to show us the images that they, and I mean the establishment, do not want us to see and it is horrific that he has had to die for it. To a courageous and compassionate man I raise my glass, Peace Pierre Alozie
Posted by Mark Power on May 30, 2008
Trent was my cousin. I haven't seen him for many years, but I always knew him to be a kind and gentle young man who's life has been cut tragically short. I can't even imagine what the family is going through. Nikki, Uncle Mike and Aunty Trish, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Posted by Iain Mc Donald on May 30, 2008
I only met Trent a couple of Times through my brother and he came across like such a talented, gentle and happy person. Even after the first meeting I knew that anybody would have been blessed to have a Friend like that. You will be missed man Rest in Peace man,
Posted by Brian Terry, Paschal Brooks (Irl) on May 30, 2008
Trent, great to have known you mate, RIP
Posted by aisling on May 30, 2008
R.I.P Trent, take care
Posted by Doug Butcher on May 30, 2008
I met Trent when he was working at a wedding last year. In the bride's house in the morning we chatted for a while about cameras and photography, me with my two lenses, him with his vast array of high quality equipment. He was obviously very proud and enthusiastic about his job, and very talented, too. I send my condolences to his family and friends. Doug
Posted by Annette & Tim Patterson on May 30, 2008
Its true, you were a gentle smiling giant with an infectious laugh. Galway will always remember you for your smile, optimism, kindness and ability to cheer us when we were down. You made a lasting impression on us all. We treasure our memories of you and you will always be in our hearts. Rest in peace Trent. Tim and Annette Patterson xx