Westlife’s Shane Filan thanks fans for support following loss of dad, Peter

"He was my best friend, my guidance through life..."

Shane Filan has shared a statement following the passing of his father, Peter. The Westlife singer took to social media last night to thank fans for their support following the death of "the most important man in my entire life." Peter Filan passed away on Sunday, October 4, less than one year after the passing of his wife Mae in December of last year.  Writing on Instagram, Shane said that on Sunday, his heart "was broken." "I lost the most important man in my entire life, my dad Peter," he wrote. "He was my best friend, my guidance through life and an absolutely amazing father. He was my hero. "He died peacefully in his sleep in the amazing care of the medical team of St Vincent's Hospital, Hawthorne Ward and my brother Peter." He continued: "I can't thank the staff of St Vincent's Hospital enough, for the incredible care they all gave him over this last year. "I'd also like to say thank you to all the Westlife fans and friends around the world for all your lovely kind messages at this very sad time. His funeral will be private to family due to all the current restrictions and safety. "He was one of a kind and will now be reunited with the love of his life of 55 years, my mum Mae. Together forever. Thank you. Love always, Shane & Family." Shane added that those who wish to paid tribute to his father's memory can make a small donation to cancertrials.ie. This loss comes just 10 months after the passing of Shane's mother, Mae Filan. "Yesterday, Sunday 15th of December, was the saddest day of my life," he wrote at the time. "My mother Mae who was an incredible, beautiful woman, wife, mother, grandmother & friend passed away peacefully surrounded by all her family."