Jack Creaven, Creagh, Ballinasloe, who died recently at the age of 81, was a native of Cloonshecahill, New Inn and worked as a psychiatric nurse at St Brigid's Hospital up to retirement in 1986. He was one of five brothers who were well known throughout the country for their hurling prowess, featuring on Killimordaly, Loughrea and Balinasloe teams during their careers. They were Bill Joe, Jack, Jimmy, Tommy and Paddy, all of who have now passed to their eternal reward, with the exception of Jimmy, who also lives in Creagh, Ballinasloe. At times, some of them were on opposing teams where they found one of their brothers was the referee. And occasionally, he was not found wanting when disciplinary measures were required! During his career in SAt Brigid's hospital, the late Jack Creaven enjoyed the highest respect. and widespread popularity. For many years, he was involved with Gael Linn, was a founder member of Our Lady Of Lourdes Credit Union in Ballinasloe and a great deal of his time t working with the Mental Health Association throughout the county. He won junior hurling medals with his native Killimordaly in 1946, 47, and 48 before coming to work in Ballinasloe. he helped his adopted town to win the County Senior Hurling Championship in 1951 and East Board medals with Ballinasloe for the successive years up to 1960. In between both he and his brother Jimmy were honoured with the county jersey in recognition of their talents. Members of the Ballinasloe Hurling Club formed a guard of honour as his remains were removed for burial in Creagh cemetery following mass in St Michael's Church. Among those in attendance were many of Jack's colleagues and opponents from his playing days. The late Jack Creaven is survived by his Eileen, sons Vincent, John, Eugene, Kieran and Enda; daughters-in-law Kitty, Evelyn, Ita and the late Fionnuala (RIP); eleven grandchildren, two great grandchildren, brother Jimmy, nephews, nieces and many other relatives and friends. Connacht Tribune 10/10/08 Tweet

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