Max O'Connor (15) from Newcastle, Co Dublin, drowned after getting into trouble while swimming on the Grand Canal between Celbridge and Ardclough.
The weather had been nice that day, and today at his funeral Max's mother, Dolores, told mourners that he had gone out to have fun with his friends, but unfortunately never came home.
At the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Clondalkin Village, students from Colaiste Chilliain in Clondalkin, where Max was a student, formed a guard of honour.
Other friends gathered to support each other, wearing white T-shirts with a photo of Max on the front and a pair of angel wings drawn on him.
The message 'Forever 15' and 'Our Star Boy' was written underneath, and the girls among them wore blue bows in their hair.
Father Shán Ó Cuív told mourners they had gathered in “unspeakable sorrow”.
Max O'Connor's funeral today. Photo: Collins Dublin.
Signs and symbols from Max's life were brought to the altar by siblings and cousins. His computer keyboard, his school history book, a pack of his favorite Koka Noodles, his hairbrush, his cell phone, his earphones and a family photo with cousins.
In his homily, Fr Ó Cuív said that no one could understand the tragedy that had taken Max's life, and that it would be understandable to feel abandoned by God in a world where such a tragedy could happen.
He said parents love their children but should set them free. “You lead them, you love them and you pull them in the right direction, but they will make mistakes, and God loves us the same way.”
Max's mother Dolores addressed mourners at the end of the Mass, thanking everyone who attended, their neighbors and everyone across the country who sent messages of love and support.
She also thanked his 'muinteoirs' past and present at Colaiste Chilliain in Clondalkin and Scoil Santain in Tallaght and said Scoil Santain was Max's second family.
“Our deepest thanks go to his friends who were with him that day. They headed out to have some fun in the sun. Unfortunately, Max never came home,” she said.
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Speaking of those friends, she said they “did everything they could that day to save their friend.” They stayed by Max's side, and that gives us great comfort. We can never thank you enough. You couldn't do more. In our eyes you are heroes.”
“You risked your own life to save the life of our wonderful boy. We do not want this tragedy to chart the course of your young lives. We want you all to go on and do well, to live great lives. Max would want you all to get the most out of life,” she added.
After the Requiem Mass, Max's remains were taken to Newlands Cross Cemetery.
Max is survived by his parents Brian and Dolores, and siblings Lee, Emma, Ava, Milly, Libby, Mark and Dwayne, niece Esme, cousin Luan, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and a large circle of friends.