Natalia’s death shocks Roscrea
The community in Roscrea has been shocked and saddened by the death of a young local secondary school student who won the hearts of many people in the town and surrounds.
Natalia Koziej of Ballybritt, Roscrea, died suddenly on Monday, August 4, in the Midlands Regional Hospital, Portlaoise.
Natalia was a Third Year student at Coláiste Phobal where her death has devastated all who were close to such a popular girl.
Reacting to her passing, the school said: “We are heartbroken by the sudden passing of our dear student, Natalia. Her loss is deeply felt throughout the Coláiste Phobal community. Natalia will be remembered with love, warmth, and kindness.”
The college said its thoughts are with her family and many friends at this incredibly difficult time.
The staff and management of the school described Natalia as a “friendly and funny girl”, adding, “may she rest in peace”.
The college posted a message of condolence on its Facebook page with the image of a lighted candle. It said: “Her spirit and heart touched the lives of so many throughout her short life.”
Another member of the Coláiste community wrote: “Natalia was a good friend and will be greatly missed. I am going to miss our chats in class,” before adding, “fly high,” and including emojis of a white dove and red heart to her message of condolence.
‘BEAUTIFUL’
Among those who expressed condolences with her bereaved family was a woman who described Natalia as “beautiful in every way”.
Roscrea Education Centre said its staff and students wanted to offer condolences to the parents and family of Natalia. “We are especially thinking of her sister Emilia during this extremely difficult time. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
One woman recalled that she had “the privilege” of preparing Natalia for her Confirmation a few years ago. “A beautiful gentle young lady taken too soon. May the Light of Heaven shine on her,” the woman wrote.
A mourner who was in school with Natalia a few years ago, wrote: “Natalia was such a bright girl. We were in primary school at the same time - I was a few classes ahead of her.
“She always had a ‘hello’ for me, even though she was a shy girl. She always made sure to say hello to those she knew. I used to help her with maths and have a laugh with her.”
‘FOREVER MISSED’
Another friend wrote: “I will forever miss you Nat. I can't even believe that this has happened - and to someone as beautiful and kind as you.
“I will never forget you or the friendship we had. I'm so thankful for meeting you and I never regretted all the moments we had together.
“Even though we hadn't known each other for a long time, it was an amazing time. I wish I could have made more memories with you, but unfortunately, it's not going to happen. I love you so much and I'll never forget all the amazing times we had.”
Natilia’s passing is deeply regretted by her loving parents Beata and Kajetan, her sister Emilia, her grandparents, her aunts and uncles, her extended family, her boyfriend Mark, good neighbours and wide circle of friends.
Following her reposal at Tierney's Funeral Home, Roscrea, on Thursday of last week, cremation of Natalia’s remains took place in Shannon Crematorium on Friday week last.