Mairead Ronan says she is "shocked and heartbroken" following the death of her beloved father, Robert. The former Ireland's Fittest Family host took to Instagram to share the sad news with her followers. Mairead explained that her podcast, which she co-hosts with her best pal Jenny Kelly, is taking a break while she grieves her loss. Read more: Mairead Ronan says it's hard to strike a balance on how much to share about her children Read more: Mairead Ronan says she she's not "retired", she just chooses the work she does these days She took to social media to share a previous video of her and her family celebrating her dad's 85th birthday in tribute to him. "Two weeks ago, my lovely dad passed away peacefully after a short illness. I'm shocked and heartbroken in equal measures," Mairead wrote on Instagram. "The podcast will return soon but for now I need a few weeks with my family and sisters to process what has happened and figure out how to live without our gentleman dad and adoring grandad Robert." Mairead was quickly inundated with messages of support from her friends and followers. "So sorry for your loss Mairead, thinking of you and your family," wrote 98FM presenter Suzanne Kane. "Lovely Robert," added Olympian Derval O'Rourke while Dancing With The Stars host Jennifer Zamparelli commented two loveheart emojis. Fans of the former Today FM host also sent their condolences. "Sorry for your loss Mairead. I remember you guys on Today FM with Ray & it struck always struck me how much you loved your dad. Mind yourself," one person wrote. "Aw Mairead I’m so sorry for your loss and often listened to you speak so beautifully of your dad. May he rest in peace," added another. While a third person said: "I am so so sorry to hear this Mairead. I know from you speaking about him over the years how adored he was & no doubt he knew that too. My condolences to your sisters & all the family."