Stack, Gerry
February 24, 2011Gerry was born a native of Duagh in 1930, one of six children to Patrick and Hanora Stack. From an early age he developed a great interest in the GAA and played with his local club. He was part of the golden era of Duagh football and played on the team that won their first North Kerry Championship in 1951 and won three titles in total in the early to mid 1950s.
Gerry studied at St Michael's College in Listowel before attaining his leaving certificate at Patrician College, Ballyfin County Laois. He graduated with a B.Agr.Sc from the National University of Ireland, Galway in 1955. While studying in Galway, Gerry played Sigerson Cup football and played on the team that won the tile in 1950.
Gerry's football career continued on the upward spiral. He was selected on and represented the Combined Universities football team in the annual exhibition matches versus the Rest of Ireland and also represented Kerry at minor, junior and senior level. During this time Gerry won Munster medals in all three grades with his beloved Kerry.
With his agricultural science degree completed, he was appointed to a position as an agriculture advisor in Galway. However, his love of his home county was great and within twelve months, his request to relocate to Kerry was successful. After stints in Kenmare and Killorglin he moved to Listowel. It was here that Gerry chose to remain and settle. He married Mary Crowley in October 1968 and they subsequently raised three sons.
His thirty-eight years of service as agriculture advisor, senior advisor and acting Chief Agriculture Officer for County Kerry were out of his retirement from Teagasc in 1995.
Gerry's interests were many, particularly the GAA. He was an active member of the Listowel Emmet's club and held the positions of Irish officer and delegate to the county board for many years. He loved travelling and supporting both Listowel Emmets and Kerry throughout the years and rarely, it ever missed a match when Kerry played in Croke Park.
He was also very active on the golfing scene in Kerry down through the years. He recounted many stories of his time as Hon. Secretary of Dooks golf club and really enjoyed his time as Captain of Ballybunion golf club in 1968 and subsequently president in 1988.
He also had a deep love for the defence forces and was an active member for almost forty years. Gerry retired in 1987 as a commandant and had the distinction of not having once missed an annual period of training throughout his lengthy service.
During his life and particularly through his retirement he was at his happiest when surrounding by family and particularly when in the company of his first grandchild, Sophie.
Gerry will be sadly missed by his wide circle of family and friends.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Courtesy of the Kerry's Eye
24th February 2011 Tweet
