HEARTBREAK FOR DANIEL O’DONNELL: Nephew Frankie Bosco O’Donnell Dies at 47
In a moment of profound sorrow, beloved Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell has been plunged into grief following the death of his nephew, Frankie Bosco O’Donnell, at the age of just 47. The tragedy has deeply affected Daniel and his entire family, as they mourn the loss of a man remembered not only for his warmth and dedication but also for his vibrant role in the community of Keadue.
Frankie, the eldest son of Daniel’s brother John Bosco and his wife Bridget, passed away after a courageous battle with illness. A father of three, he leaves behind his heartbroken wife Lisa, daughter Sarah, sons Logan and Ryan, brother Joey, and a wide circle of friends, relatives, and admirers who knew him best for his big heart and unwavering spirit.
The singer, who is currently in Tenerife, is understood to be returning home to attend the funeral and be with his family. Just months ago, in November, Daniel had publicly asked fans for prayers, revealing Frankie’s declining health:
“Please can I ask for prayers for my nephew Frankie who is very ill. He is my brother John’s eldest son. Many of you will remember Frankie from when we owned the Viking House Hotel. He worked in the bar. Please pray for him and his wife and children and John, Bridget and Joey. Prayer is powerful and only God knows the future.”
Frankie was a familiar and beloved face at Daniel’s former Viking House Hotel in Kincasslagh, where he worked behind the bar and charmed guests with his wit and warmth. But beyond his family ties, Frankie left a lasting mark on his community. He was co-chairman of Keadue Rovers FC, a club he devoted much of his life to—as a player, coach, committee member, and motivator.
In a poignant tribute, Keadue Rovers FC described Frankie as “the biggest GOAT that Keadue could have asked for.”
“Passionate, committed, hard-working and at the heart of any craic and slagging that was going – that was Frankie.”
They shared heartfelt memories of his leadership during both victories and struggles—on and off the pitch:
“Many times when the club might have been struggling over the years – either on or off the pitch – it was often Frankie who would sound the battle cry to get everyone motivated again. Frankie’s voice will echo over Central Park forever more.”
The loss has left the tight-knit Donegal community stunned. Frankie’s funeral arrangements reflect the deep respect and affection held for him. His remains are reposing at McGlynns Funeral Home, Dungloe, with rosaries and visitation scheduled before removal to his home in Keadue. Funeral Mass will take place on Sunday at 1pm at St. Mary’s Church, Kincasslagh, followed by burial at Belcruit Cemetery.
As Daniel O’Donnell prepares to say goodbye to his beloved nephew, fans across Ireland and beyond are standing in quiet solidarity—honoring a life cut far too short but lived with passion, love, and an unforgettable presence that will live on in memory.