Des Byrne was one of the founding trustees of COFIS, and it is with great sadness that we announce his passing, on 16 September 2023. 

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Des was Chair of Aberdeen Friends of Israel, and led the group which hosted that city's first ever Shalom Festival. Des was admired and loved by everyone who met him for his good humour, kindness, generosity and sincerity. A true Christian, Des was a devoted family man and was involved in a range of charities as well as COFIS.

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As well as leading the Aberdeen group, Des and his wife Liz made numerous trips to Glasgow to attend events and even helped out on the famous Glasgow Friends of Israel street stall in Buchanan Street. 

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We knew that his health was failing, and it was only a matter of days between learning that the cancer had spread to his brain and then receiving the news today that we had all been dreading.

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A true Mensch, righteous Gentile and all-round good egg. Des, you will be missed. RIP and may his memory be for a blessing.