The Late Bertie Shanahan A loving, kind and honest man, christened Bartholomew Shanahan, but known as Bertie, passed to his eternal reward at his residence in his beloved Currow on September 15 in the love and care of his wife and family. He was born the fourth of nine children to the late Denis and Johanna Shanahan, Currow Village. Following the death of his father when Bertie was a small boy, he was educated at both Meenleitrim, Knocknagoshel and Clounclough National Schools. Bertie started his working life at a very young age, with the Meredith family, Parkmore. He worked for many years on the family farm in Currow, having a great love for the well being of the animals and the land. This remained a lifelong passion. In time, Bertie joined King Bros Builders, before moving to England in 1956 with Teresa Laffin, a native of Dublin. Upon their return a year later, they married when he rejoined King Bros, eventually taking up employment as a fitter/welder with Limerick (Ireland), Killarney, until his retirement in 1985 after 28 years of service. They were blessed with three daughters who shared Bertie's love of fishing, shooting and greyhounds, but especially football, which was very close to his heart. He was the proud possessor of a county championship medal, which he won with Castleisland District team in 1950 of which his late brother Tom was captain. His brother Paddy Ball, was also a member of that team. He maintained a life long interest in Currow football and in particular, the junior teams. A man of deep faith, Bertie observed the Sabbath and Church holy days religiously. At his funeral mass, this was symbolised at the offertory procession, when the gifts taken to the altar by his three daughters, represented his love of family, bread and wine his faith. The gifts including a commemorative plate presented at the 50 year celebration of his county championship team and a circle of yellow roses for friendship and his community. All who called to Bertie's house were greeted with a warm, caring welcome and a gentle smile. A large attendance was present at the memorial of his remains. The local GAA Club providing a guard of honour, a gesture much appreciated by his family. Following concelebrated mass, interment took place in St Michael's Cemetery, Killeentierna. He is survived by his wife, Teresa, his daughters, Patricia, Dolores and Elizabeth, grandchildren, brothers Paddy and Sean and extended family, who deeply mourn his passing. Ar dheis De go raibh a h-anam dillis. Courtesy of The Kerryman 29th September 2005 Tweet

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