COLLEAGUES of Kevin Browne remembered him as a hard worker with a huge heart, who had long-term plans to live in Mount Isa with his fiance, Jane Casey.
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Mr Browne was a scaffolder in Mount Isa with MC Scaffolds, where he had been employed for about six months.
Employees of the company formed a guard of honour at Mount Isa Airport yesterday morning in a mark of respect as Mr Browne's body was flown back to his home country of Ireland.
At the request of Mr Browne's family, his favourite song - The Best of Times by Sage Francis - played as his workmates paid their final respects.
Jason and Narelle Crockett, owners of MC Scaffolds, said Mr Browne had been chosen last week as the employee of the month for March, and his certificate had been given to Ms Casey.
Sean Kinniburgh, one of the leading hands at MC Scaffolds, said Mr Browne was the type of person who ``brightened everyone's day'', but also was one of the company's best workers.
Mr Kinniburgh thanked the Mount Isa Airport staff for their support as people said goodbye to their mate.
Police investigations are continuing after Mr Browne, 27, fell to his death from the Hard Times Mine headshaft at the weekend.
Ms Casey, who had recently set up her own business in the city, was on the flight to Ireland with her sister, a hairdresser in Mount Isa.
It's believed Ms Casey, who had known Mr Browne for about 12 years, will not return to Mount Isa.
When her sister returns to Mount Isa, it's understood a memorial service will be held for Mr Browne.