UK News The funeral of a man who died climbing Everest has been held at the Principality Stadium

© Wales News Service/WalesOnline The funeral of Kellinu Portelli was held at the Principality Stadium

The funeral of a huge sports fan who died on a charity climbing trip to Everest has been held at the Principality Stadium .

A black hearse carrying the coffin of Kellinu Portelli pulled up on the riverfront walkway directly outside the entrance to the Riverside Terrace at the Cardiff stadium.

The coffin was surrounded by floral arrangements including one that spelled out 'My Bro' in white flowers.

Mourners followed the cortege as its made its way up the iconic paved walkway for what is thought to be the first ceremony of its kind at the stadium.

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The funeral party entered the rooms overlooking the River Taff to American singer John Legend's All of Me.

Mr Portelli, 54, of Leckwith, Cardiff, had been suffering from low blood oxygen levels on his trip and was found dead at base camp.

The dad of Lucia, 26, and Sam, 20, and grandfather to Luca had been raising money for cancer charity Marie Curie after losing his mother-in-law and a close friend to the disease.

His wife Donna, 50, said at the time: "I said to him just be careful and he said: 'I will be careful I promise'

"That night there was a festival on and Kell was dancing and singing with locals and then he went to bed.

"In the morning the guide said he went to get him but he died in his sleep."

© Jonathan Myers

© Jonathan Myers

Many people have since contributed to his justgiving.com fundraising page, which had reached a total of £10,547 at the time of publishing this article.

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One donor wrote: "In memory of an amazing, generous, warm, funny man, a good friend to so many and a loving son, father and grandfather."

© Jonathan Myers

© Jonathan Myers

© WALES NEWS SERVICE Kellinu Portelli

Another said: "RIP to a true gentleman. You’re an inspiration to so many. Your love and kindness will live on through your family."

Mr Portelli was a keen runner who was a member of the Les Croupiers running club and had completed seven marathons and many 10ks and parkruns.

The service at the Principality Stadium was led by civil celebrant Michael Farr and included reflections from many family and friends.

As the mourners left, the national anthem Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau was played.

The service was followed by a final farewell at the Wenallt Chapel, Thornhill Crematorium.