Monaghan Obituaries 2009
Monsignor Eugene McQuaid
(Emyvale and New Jersey)
Monsignor McQuaid was widely known and deeply loved in the north Monaghan area.
Although working in America, he came back to Ireland for his annual leave each
summer. As a young man, Eugene was a talented footballer and a prominent member
of the Emyvale club.
Margaret McKenna
(Dernamuck, Emyvale)
Margaret lived to the grand old age of 96 and was the oldest resident of the
parish of Truagh at the time of her death. She was very active in local community
affairs, particularly Truagh GAA club.
Anna May McElroy (Ballybay)
Nee Boyd, Anna May was a big follower of Drumhowan for whom her three sons,
Declan, Kieran and Martin played. In late 2008 and even though severely ill,
she had great pleasure in seeing Martin winning Monaghan and Ulster junior championship
medals. At Anna May’s funeral, both Cremartin and Drumhowan GAA clubs formed
a guard of honour.
John Duffy (Tyramedon, Annyalla)
John was a respected member of the local farming community. He was also a loyal
supporter of the Drumhowan club and his three sons, Martin, Stephen and John
Paul all played underage with the club.
John McGuinness (Ballybay)
The people of Ballybay were saddened by the death of John McGuinness in January.
John was a huge supporter and worker for the Pearse Brothers and his passing
leaves a hole that will be impossible to fill.
He was born in Latton and was involved with the O’Rahilly’s in his
early years to the extent that he was part of the committee that organised the
purchase of the field where the club still plays. He bought a house in Ballybay
33 years ago to be nearer to his work in the Tannery and in doing so threw his
lot in with Ballybay. Latton’s loss was Ballybay’s gain.
John became a tireless worker for Ballybay. He filled a variety of roles on
committees but he primarily was a doer, not a talker. It was generally John
who would be called out to help out on match day, whether it was in the car
park or at the gate, or helping with clean up before or after games or the myriad
of other duties that we all take for granted. He became synonymous with the
Blotto in later years and his efforts helped give the club the financial foundation
to build the clubhouse and astro pitch in Pearse Park. Typical to his modest
character, he sought neither praise nor recognition for his efforts. He simply
did what he could. Around such people, clubs and indeed communities are built.
John was a warm, funny, sincere and humble man. He was small in stature but
a giant in every other way. His contribution to the club was so immense that
he became the first recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. He
lived to see his grandchildren play for Ballybay and this gave him enormous
pride. It is a testament to his character that so many people attended his funeral
and he will be sadly missed. The town and indeed the county are poorer for his
passing.
Bernard Fox (Annyalla)
Bernard was a very intelligent young man. Only 22 years of age, he was a great
follower of gaelic football and could hold his own in debate on any sporting
matter. Bernard played juvenile football with Cremartin and the club helped
form a guard of honour at his funeral.
Margaret ‘May’ McCauley (Smithboro)
Nee Carroll, May was a very respected person in the Shankill, Smithboro area.
The local GAA club, Eire Og, formed a guard of honour at her funeral.
Owen Coyle (Lisnalong)
Owen, who was just about to celebrate his eighteenth birthday, had a great interest
in gaelic football. He loved to listen to the progress of matches on the radio
and was delighted when his local club Latton captured the Monaghan senior football
championship in 2008.
Seamus Hanratty (Castleblayney/Carrickmacross)
Seamus was from a famed Blayney GAA clan. He was a former player with the Faughs
and despite moving to Carrickmacross, remained a loyal supporter. He took particular
delight in the achievements of his nephew Ciaran Hanratty in the Monaghan colours.
As Seamus’ cortage reached the centre of Carrickmacross, it was escorted
to the church by a guard of honour from Castleblayney Faughs.
Francie Quail (Newbliss)
The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the Quail family, Conaghy,
Newbliss on the death of Honourary Club President Francie Quail. Our sincerest
condolences go to his son Kevin, Kevin’s wife Geraldine, his daughter Mary
and his extended family and friends.
The first game of the new season was not the same without Francie manning the
gate, meeting and greeting the players and management from both teams with his
good wishes for the game ahead. I don’t know why we built a covered stand
in Killeevan because Francie Quail never stood in it. He was happier where the
action was, leaning over the wall at the dressing rooms where he offered encouragement
and praise to players in defeat as well as in victory. His opinion was greatly
valued by players, managers and selectors alike over the years. Francie was
a man of integrity and credibility and when he spoke everyone listened.
Francie will be dearly missed by everyone involved with Killeevan Sarsfields.
May be rest in peace. Suaimhneas síoraí do.
Killeevan GAA
Michael Hughes (Killygoan)
The death of Michael Hughes, at the tender age of sixteen years, has robbed
his parents James and Colette of their darling only son and the O’Neills
club of a promising young player, who was justifiably proud of his family’s
long association with our club. James Hughes has given a lifetime of service
to Clontibret O’Neills, as a player, selector and supporter and he was
proud to pass on that love and loyalty to the boy who was the light of his eyes,
his son, Michael.
Michael began his football career in Clontibret with the under 8s and in the
years since, he blossomed into a promising young player, who was easy to work
with and always gave it his all no matter what task was set out for him. He
shared the disappointment of the loss of the under 16 final last year but was
looking forward to another year in that level and the hope of victory in 2009.
When he wasn’t wearing the yellow jersey he loved so well, he followed
its progress assiduously at every level and he and his dad, James rarely missed
a match, be it at underage, reserve or senior level. Only a few days before
his tragic death he was in Clones to cheer on his club mates, as they assisted
Monaghan in their victory over Wexford in the national football league.
Michael’s death at such a young age is a profound loss to our club, but
that loss pales into insignificance compared to the pain experienced by James
and Colette, his sister Margaret, brother in law Mark and niece Megan, to whom
we offer our deepest sympathy. If it is any small consolation, they should know
that we are proud to have had Michael as a valued player and colleague and that
his memory will live long among those who played with him and those who watched
him play the game he loved so well. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilis.
Clontibret GAA
Paddy Connolly (Scotstown/Smithboro)
Paddy was a great GAA follower and it was his dream to see his native county
win the All-Ireland football final. He never missed an Eire Og match and the
club formed a guard of honour at his funeral mass.
Brendan McCann
(Donaghmore/Monaghan Town)
The neighbouring counties of Monaghan and Tyrone came together to honour the
life of a favourite son. Brendan McCann, originally from the village of Donaghmore
just outside Dungannon, would later become synonymous with the town of Monaghan,
and in particular, its local GAA club Monaghan Harps. A true gael, his devotion
to club and county was matched only by his love for friends and family.
Those people are now in mourning after the passing of Brendan on Wednesday 18th
February at Cavan General Hospital. Brendan had suffered a short illness - first
diagnosed with cancer in May 2008; he nevertheless continued to live his life
with the same genial humour which endeared him to so many who met him. The turn
of the year had brought a deterioration in health, but his death remained as
a massive shock regardless.
Brendan McCann was born on the 25th of August 1954 to parents Mary and Pete.
A second child in a family of 12, he would later marry Monaghan native Patricia
McCooey. The day of their union, in March of 1978, was a joyous occasion for
all those present, and all the more so considering days gone by.
Brendan had been involved in a serious car accident in 1973 - one he was lucky
to survive. Unfortunately, his close friend and fellow passenger Declan Kennedy
did not have the same fortune. The accident and death of his friend was a key
point in the life of Brendan McCann, but there were many much more positive
episodes to come.
Having entered the world of marriage, Brendan and Patricia lived for a time
in Dungannon as he worked in Shield’s Sawmill. A joiner by trade, he would
later move to Monaghan town in 1981 to work with Tyrone company IJM, In the
intervening years he changed professions on a number of occasions, working with
Monaghan Poultry Products and also spending time as a milkman.
It wasn’t until becoming a care worker at Iona House in Castleblayney that
Brendan found his true calling, however. Greatly popular with patients and colleagues
alike, Brendan also had an intense commitment to his position, which led him
to studying for and receiving a certificate in Social Care from Galway University.
Brendan had a lifelong love for music, stretching from his early years back
in Donaghmore Youth Club and continuing after his move across the border, where
he joined with the Glaslough Musical Society. His outgoing and gregarious nature
was also complemented by a flair for public speaking, leading to numerous occasions
where Brendan served as compere in a variety of different settings. Recently
he acted as MC for the exhibition match between world snooker champion John
Higgins and Mark Selby in the Hillgrove Hotel, but he was equally at home calling
bingo at the same venue, or hosting karaoke nights around the country.
Brendan McCann was a complex figure with a variety of hopes and dreams, but
no tribute to his life can omit his love for the Tyrone football team. In a
sport where supporter passion is particularly keen, Brendan’s dedication
to his team stood out from the crowd. As did Brendan himself, easily identifiable
by his red scarf which he wore to every Red Hand game. Offering words of condolence,
Mickey Harte recalled Brendan as a trend setter for GAA supporters in his wearing
of colours. The Tyrone manager offered his respects in person at Brendan’s
wake, as did Tyrone’s All-Ireland winning captain Peter Canavan, who accompanied
the Sam Maguire and Tom Markham trophies - a clear sign of the esteem in which
Brendan was held in his native county.
Brendan attended his final GAA game at the beginning of this year - the spectacle
fitted the occasion as 82,000 people witnessed Tyrone’s victory over Dublin
in Croke Park. That night marked the GAA’s 125th anniversary celebrations,
but also the last time Brendan McCann would watch his beloved Red Hands in person.
Over the years there’s been plenty of highs and lows for Tyrone supporters,
but Brendan will no doubt take great fulfilment that his last year saw an historic
All-Ireland senior and minor football double for the county.
The funeral mass and burial of Brendan McCann took place at St. Macartan’s
Cathedral. Many businesses in the town recognised the fact by flying the red
and white flag of Tyrone in his memory. Members of Monaghan Harps and Donaghmore
St. Patrick’s flanked the hearse as it made its way to St. Joseph’s
cemetery, to be followed by thousands of mourners. Brendan’s coffin, adorned
with the flags of Monaghan Harps and Tyrone was then lowered into the ground.
As well as his wife, Patricia, Brendan is survived by his brothers and sisters
- Declan, Dympna Fulton, Eilish Hetherington, Carmel Donnelly, Peadar, Ciaran,
Colette Gervin, Enda, Jarlath, Siobhan McKeever and Fintan, brothers in law,
sisters in law, father in law Owen McCooey, uncle, Brendan Cormac, aunt Dolores
McKenna, nieces, nephews, cousins, and large family circle, to whom sincere
sympathy is extended.
Speaking to a sizeable crowd of well wishers outside the courthouse in Monaghan
town last September, Mickey Harte emphasised the special bond that exists between
the O’Neill and Oriel counties. Nowhere was the bond more heartfelt and
real than with Brendan McCann. He will be dearly missed.
David Keelaghan
Ita Brannigan (Annyalla)
Ita was a great GAA supporter and was very proud of the achievements of her
sons Aidan and Gerry, who wore the Cremartin jersey with distinction for years.
Ita was a very quiet, easy going but immensely popular lady and the local Cremartin
club formed a guard of honour at the removal of her remains.
Frank O’Duffy (Donaghmoyne/Castleblayney)
The following tribute to the late Frank O’Duffy of ‘San Marino’,
Castleblayney, who died recently, was submitted for publication on behalf of
the late Mr O’Duffy’s former friends and associates:
The death of Frank has removed from the scene a person of immense esteem and
popularity. His innate friendship and kindly disposition endeared him not only
to his wife and family, but to the community at large and those fortunate enough
to have been counted among his close acquaintances.
Born in 1930 in Donaghmoyne, Frank received his early education at Broomfield
National School where his father and mother were the incumbent teachers. Here
he grew up with his late brother Brendan, his late sister Marie (subsequently
O’Driscoll), and his brother Desmond, now residing in Sarasota, Florida.
He later attended St. Macartan’s College where he excelled both academically
and on the sports fields. Frank was captain of the championship winning Ranafast
college team of 1947 and again led his team in 1948 in the McRory Cup. He was
also chosen on the Ulster Colleges provincial team in the same year. He was
an exceptional handballer in which sport his main opponent was his brother Brendan.
Surviving contemporary fellow students of Frank and Brendan still recall the
epic handball matches played annually by them before the entire school audience,
with vociferous supporters on either side, where the only prize for winning
was the honour of doing so, and the fate of the loser was the ignominy of being
obliged to publicly carry home his clothes, books, and football gear, in the
most battered of the two family trunks which the two brothers had brought to
school at the start of the year. Surely a school spectacle at the end of the
‘40s which would be unimaginable to the present day student!
He subsequently played minor and senior football with Monaghan.
His attachment to his native Broomfield and to his alma mater was to remain
with him for the rest of his life and is evidenced in the great contribution
he made to the subsequent development of both his native parish and his college.
This was manifested in his authorship of the history of the Donaghmoyne Fontenoy’s
football club and his enthusiastic membership of St. Macartan’s Past Pupils
Union.
In his student days he was a valued member of the great Donaghmoyne senior football
team so prominent in the 1950s.
He and his later brother Brendan won Hackett Cup and Owen Ward Cup medals during
this famous time in the club’s history.
It was always a source of regret for Frank that his beloved Donaghmoyne did
not succeed in winning any of the senior championship finals in which they participated
during this memorable period.
He qualified as a chartered accountant in 1954 and spent the early years of
his career in Dublin. In 1960 he decided to go abroad and for 12 years worked
as financial accountant with the Unilever Group in Freetown, Sierra Leone, Accra
in Ghana, Lagos in Nigeria, Bathurst in Gambia and Ndola, Zambia. It was in
Freetown that he met his future wife Yvonne, and settled down to married life
in Africa, where his children Desmond, Mona and Mary were born.
Returning to Ireland in 1972, Frank joined Gypsum Industries as works’
accountant, commuting daily to Kingscourt from Castleblayney. He retired in
1992. Passing through his native place to and from work was a particular pleasure
for him and he took great pride in the many physical and community improvements
he witnessed during those years.
He contributed generously of his time to the development of cultural, educational
and commercial interests through his involvement with Castleblayney Enterprise
Centre, the management board of St. Mary’s Boys National School and the
Knights of Columbanus.
Frank’s knowledge of world affairs, history, geography and political matters
was legendary, fuelled by his avid capacity for reading and extensive travel
experience. In recent years he had repeatedly forecast with typical prescience
the collapse of the American economy. His love of reading, poetry, music and
gardening was widely recognised.
But it was his simplicity and good humour which made him so likeable. His capacity
to engage all and sundry in interminable conversation was sometimes controversial
but always stimulating. Those were the characteristics which distinguished him
and made him so engaging. His love of his wife, children and grandchildren was
inspirational and his natural goodness shone through in his every day contact
with those whom he met.
He was a true christian gentleman.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dhilis.
Nora Rooney (Castleblayney)
It is with deep regret we record the death at St. Mary’s Hospital, Castleblayney
after a long illness, of Mrs Nora Rooney (nee McGrath) of Thomas Street, Castleblayney,
who was a highly esteemed member of one of Blayney’s best known and most
respected families.
The deceased was the widow of the late Peter Rooney, a former FCA Commandant
who was also a former Fianna Fail member of Castleblayney Urban District Council.
The late Mrs Rooney is survived by her sons Liam and Frankie Rooney, her brother
and sister, Liam and Kathleen McGrath, daughters in law, Mary Rooney and Pauline
Rooney, nieces and nephews, and grandchildren and great grandchild.
There was a large attendance at the wake and funeral for the deceased, epitomising
the esteem and respect in which the deceased and family were held in the local
community.
Nora’s father was the late Willie McGrath, a former Castleblayney Town
Clerk and founder member and first captain of the Blayney Faughs GFC, whose
present day members formed a guard of honour at the removal of the remains to
St. Mary’s Church, where Requiem Mass was offered by Reverend Father Walsh
CC. The church choir produced a memorable performance of Nora’s favourite
hymns, and among the soloists was 11 years old Laura McGrath, a grand daughter
of another Blayney football legend, Nora’s late brother, Charlie McGrath,
the voice of an angel in the crowded church.
Interment followed in the adjoining cemetery after a graveside tribute delivered
by her nephew John McGrath.
Edward Murphy (Threemilehouse)
Our club community was saddened to learn of the passing to his eternal reward
of Edward James Murphy on St Patricks Day. Edward James or Eddie of Ballagh
as he was affectionately known by all in the club, had a lifelong interest in
Cumann Luthchleas Gael. Eddie was installed as our second club chairman from
1963-73, a tenure that he took much satisfaction and pride from over the intervening
years, watching as he did with interest the ongoing club development and growth.
Although essentially a very private person, Eddie’s affable personality
endeared him to all who knew him. Eddie enjoyed a good debate or discussion,
especially if the topic was football, his powers to accurately recollect incidents
and facts bringing clarity and finality to oft times heated after-bingo arguments
in the complex on Monday nights.
While he will be sadly missed in our club, his death will be acutely felt amongst
his immediate neighbours, to the McElvaney and Murphy families we tender our
sincerest sympathy.
Sean McDermotts GFC
Gerry Quinn (Laragh, Ballybay)
It was with great sadness and sense of loss that club members and the wider
community learned of the sudden, if not totally unexpected death of the late
Gerry Quinn. Gerry was a former player with Drumhowan and was a member of the
historic junior double winning team of 1960. Pre-deceased by his loving wife
Susan some 6 years earlier, Gerry never really recovered from her untimely death
and within a few short months of her demise, he himself was struck with serious
illness. Although robbed of his independence, he bore his cross with great fortitude
and dignity under the dedicated care of his loving family. The club wishes to
extend its sympathy to his sons Eugene, Seamus, Gerry, Martin, Dermot, Paul,
Brendan and Colm and his daughters Mary and Cathriona, his sons and daughters
in law, his grandchildren, brothers and sister, nieces and nephews. Ar dheis
De go raibh a anam dilish.
Drumhowan GFC
Phil Trappe
(Drumbear, Monaghan town)
Phil Trappe, one of Monaghan Harps Club Presidents, passed to his eternal reward
during 2009. Phil was born in Soran, Ballinalee, Co. Longford and came to Monaghan
in 1966 with the Department of Agriculture. His contribution to ground development
at club and county level was immeasurable. His deep knowledge and practicality
were features of his down to earth approach to any problem.
Phil’s gardening proficiency was especially well known to his friends and
neighbours at Drumbear. Neighbourliness, kindness and a constancy of purpose
in all his life’s work were attributes he bore with great humility. He
revelled in genial conversation and had a subtle sense of humour that all who
knew him greatly enjoyed. Arms folded with a mischievous grin, his ability to
hold the attention of his friends in good humoured banter made his company most
enjoyable. The richness of his life’s work, his ability to give of his
best, and lend the helping hand will be long remembered by all that knew him.
Monaghan Harps GAA club conveys deepest sympathy to his wife Teresa and his
sons Adrian, Seamus, Philip and Pauric. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.
Monaghan Harps GAA
Jim McMahon (Drum)
Jim lived to the grand old age of 93 years. He acted as Chairman of the Currin
club in the late 1940s, early 1950s and was one of the men in charge when the
club gained Dr Ward Cup medals in 1951.
Cormac Shannon (Magheracloone)
Magheracloone and Monaghan GAA lost a great supporter with the passing on April
17 2009 of Cormac Shannon, 58 Cloughvalley, Carrickmacross. Cormac, who was
known affectionately by family and friends as ‘Rolley’, was a native
of Mullintoman, Magheracloone and was one of the great characters in south Monaghan.
He always remained close to his native Magheracloone and was a big supporter
of the Mitchells, donning his stand-out trademark black and white corked hat
at home and away games.
Eamonn Robinson (Monaghan town)
Though he was born in Lisburn, County Antrim and spent the latter years of his
life in Omagh, County Tyrone, Eamonn Robinson was always associated with Mullaghmatt
in Monaghan town, where he spent most of his 35 years. His father Patrick was
a huge Tyrone supporter and he instilled this in Eamonn, who also had a fondness
for Fermanagh, which he inherited from his mother Teresa. Eamonn joined in the
celebrations when the O’Neill County won Sam in 2003, 2005 and 2008 and
he loved Mickey Harte’s team. But he also followed Monaghan’s fortunes
closely and derived great satisfaction – and pride - from the recent exploits
of Banty’s boys.
Kathleen ‘Cait’ Dooley (Essexford)
Nee Haughey, Cait was the matriarch of a great GAA family. Wife of the late
Pat, included amongst a list of many relatives were sons Seamus (who has contributed
greatly to GAA affairs in north America) and Thomas and Terence, all former
Killanny players. Her grandson Peter Dooley was player cum manager of the Killanny
senior team who enjoyed a great championship run during 2009. Peter’s mother
Kathleen Dooley, a daughter in law of Cait’s, acted as the club’s
assistant secretary while Cait’s son in law Leo McGlew was club vice chairman.
Leo’s son plays with the Killanny under 16 team.
Sharon McEnaney (Magheracloone)
The entire south Monaghan community was plunged into grief by the untimely passing
of Sharon McEnaney from Clonseady, Magheracloone on April 15. Sharon’s
death at a young age leaves a huge void in her family, community and wide circle
of friends – a gap that can never be filled. Sharon was a popular, kind
and loving young woman who had a keen interest in the GAA and played ladies
football for Magheracloone.
Bill McElvaney (Clontibret)
The Clontibret O’Neill’s club was plunged into mourning in mid-June
2009 by the death of one of their legendary footballers and clubmen, Bill McElvaney
of Coolartra. Bill began his football career on the fields around Lemgare and
Derrynoose and was a founder member of Clontibret GAA club when it was formed
in 1946. He won his first medal the following year when Inniskeen were beaten
in the junior final. He played wing back in his early days but then moved back
into the corner and was regular corner back for the next ten years. Bill played
in eight senior county finals, winning six, and once enjoyed a memorable battle
with the up-and-coming Charlie Gallagher in a tournament match in Tanagh. After
hanging up his boots, Bill maintained a close association with the club over
the next 50 years and served them as club president, attending every club AGM
from 1946 until the most recent one in December 2008. Bill will be remembered
as a tough but fair opponent, a good sportsman, a brilliant clubman and a loyal
gael.
Jim Loftus (Inniskeen)
Jim Loftus of Drumass and formerly of Limerick was a familiar figure at all
Inniskeen matches, no matter the distance, grade or code, never missing a game
home or away since settling in south Monaghan. He gave freely of his time, regularly
doing voluntary work on the Pairc Grattan development, and could be described
as a true and loyal gael. Jim’s sons Oisin and Seamus are current Inniskeen
players.
Pat McDonald (Castleblayney)
It is with deep regret we record the death of the well known and highly respected
Blayney businesman Mr Pat McDonald, at his residence at Conabury, Dundalk Road,
Castleblayney.
The late Mr McDonald passed away after a lengthy illness, borne with inspiring
courage and fortitude.
The deceased was held in the highest esteem by all who knew him and his name
looms large in local GAA circles from his close association with Castleblayney
Faughs GFC, for whom he was Club Treasurer for a record breaking twenty five
years and like his family, especially his famous footballing brothers Barney
and Vincey, were pillars of the great county Monaghan club.
Indeed his outstanding contribution to gaeldom was reflected by the large turnout
at the removal of remains and funeral at St. Marys Church, Castleblayney, where
a huge guard of honour was provided by the Faughs club and Requiem Mass was
offered by Canon John McCabe PP, assisted by Reverend Fr Seamus Whelan.
The chief mourners were Pat’s widow Teresa; his sons, Paraic and Sean;
his daughters Sinead, Roisin, Aoife and Aine; his brothers Brian and Vincent;
his sisters Mary, Kate, Joe, Frances, Bernie, Bridie, Dympna and Geraldine;
to all of whom our sincere sympathy is extended.
At the graveside, Pat’s elder son, Paraic, expressed the family’s
appreciation to the large attendance who braved the wet and windy weather to
pay their final respects. There was a huge GAA presence at the funeral, including
the attendance of Pauric Duffy, General Director of the Association, and a close
personal friend of the desceased; also former GAA President Sean McCague and
the former Dublin manager and tv pudit Tommy Lyons.
Finally, Castlebalyney Faughs President Liam McGrath delivered the graveside
eulogy in which he praised Pat’s wonderful record as a GAA administrator
and his innumerable fine qualities and achievements.
He said the late Pat would be sadly missed by a multitude of friends and admirers,
not only from his native Blayney but far and wide. He said he remembered Pat
as a lifelong friend and one of the most respected and trustworthy Blayney born
and bred men of all time.
“Apart from his much loved wife and family, whom he adored, Pat’s
one great passion in life was the GAA, and in particular the Faughs club, an
organisation that will miss him dearly.”
He said it was not for Pat’s football prowess he was remembered, but for
his impresive contribution to the game and to the Faugh’s club off the
pitch. His son Paraic was the highest scoring forward the club had produced
in years and his brothers Brian and Vincent had illustrious careers in the green
and gold.
Mr McGrath recalled how he had persuaded the deceased to take over the role
of Faughs Club Treasurer, a task which he undertook with great, great distinction
over his record twenty five year office span.
“A humble, kind and generous man, Pat worked way beyond the call of duty
in keeping the Faughs ship of state afloat,” continued Mr McGrath. “He
proved to be an organisational genius, who got things done with minimum fuss
and maximum effeciency.”
He concluded in remarking that his final thoughts wiere with the late Pat’s
wife and family, and added that his passing had left a void that would never
be filled. “God bless and take care of you Pat, a mhic, and may the soil
and sod of your beloved Blayney rest lightly on you.”
Castleblayney GAA
Dan Thompson (Newbliss)
The club would like to extend its deepest sympathy to the Thompson family, Newbliss
on the death of their father Dan Thompson.
Sincere condolences to his sons Patrick, Cornelius and Adrian, his daughter
Celia and their families, his grandchildren, his extended family and many friends.
He will be sadly missed by everyone in Killeevan and the surrounding clubs and
parishes and was indeed a great character and an iconic figure in the community.
Dan had an easygoing personality and a great sense of humour. He enjoyed meeting
and talking to people young and old, he had a wealth of knowledge of current
affairs, history and sport as well as his love for music and singing, and it
was commonplace for Dan to sing a verse or two of the Rose of Tralee or Danny
Boy to name a few. These are only a few of the qualities which made Dan one
of the most respected and popular landlords of our generation. Above all Dan
will be remembered as a proud family man and an avid GAA supporter, following
his beloved Kerry and Killeevan. He proudly supported his sons during their
playing careers with the Sarsfields and more recently the playing careers of
his grandsons.
Dan remained a lifelong passionate fan of Kerry football, so it was fitting
that he should pass away peacefully after watching his beloved Kingdom win yet
another All Ireland at the expense of great rivals Cork. Dan we thank you for
the many years of laughter, craic, songs, stories and friendship you gave us
all over the years. Your presence behind the bar will be sadly missed forever.
May you rest in peace and God bless you.
Tá sé deacair a chreidiúint go bhfuil Dan imithe, fear
comh mór in imeachtaí an Chlub, an CLG agus an Sráidbhaile
comh maith. Bhí sé in ann cuidiú a thabhairt de gach rud
abhí ag tarlú sa cheantar. Mar sin, gan amhras, d’fhag sé
oidhreacht dearfach d’chlann agus d’achan duine a bhualadh leis i
rith a shaol. Slán go fóill a chara agus go ndéana Dia
trócaire ort.
Killeevan GFC
John Moen (Ballybay)
The town of Ballybay lost another of its favourite sons when John Moen passed
away peacefully. John, born and bred in Ballybay was one of the all time greats
of Ballybay and indeed Monaghan football. It is hard to overestimate the contribution
he made to the Pearse Brothers. He was at the meeting that changed the club
colours from blue and white to maroon. He served as treasurer and secretary
as well as on the committee for over 30 years. When Ballybay was ravaged by
emigration in the 1960s, John took it upon himself to manage teams at all levels
including the legendary 1966 Minor Double winning side. Ballybay have won 7
Senior championships. John, a place kicker without equal, played on 5 of those
teams (1953, 1954, 1957, 1959 and 1962) and managed the 1969 team to their championship
win. In that game he played Kevin Duffy (RIP) as a forward who acted as an extra
defender, 35 years before it became fashionable. John also won numerous medals
at underage and Junior B level but the pride of his impressive haul was the
Celtic Cross he won with the 1956 Junior All-Irel