Rheinisch, Patrick Julian
May 10, 2011
It is with deep sorrow and regret that we record the passing of one of Dungarvan's most loyal sons, Patrick Julian Rheinisch, Malahide Road, Dublin and Harbour View, Dungarvan.
This true gael and son of the Deise was born in Dungarvan in 1916 at No.5, Harbour View, son of a ship's Master. There were also several Sea Captains in the family on the Curran side and, while he was never tempted to go to sea, he yearned to carry the rank of captain too.
His wish was granted when in 1934, he set out on a military career in the volunteer forces in Dungarvan. The following year he joined the Civil Service in Dublin and continued his military service there. After serving through the Emergency 1939-1945, he finally left the Permanent Defence Forces to resume in the Civil Service, carrying the title of captain for which he had wished and worked for so long.
Julian loved to recall the simple times of his youth and childhood, spent mainly at the seafront at Harbour view and at his grandfather's premises around the corner at what is presently The Moorings. Despite not going to sea, Julian had a deep interest in all things marine and about Dungarvan, being able to quote names and owners of all the ships plying through Dungarvan and their origins and destinations. He fondly referred to his home town as Dun Garbhan, na sean bhad seolta.
During all those years he spent in Dublin, he thought many times about Dungarvan and the places, sights and sounds he missed daily. He regularly quoted poems and rhymes, especially the poetry of his great friend, Mai O'Higgins who wrote 'Dungarvan my Hometown' and many other poems and songs in praise of the Deise. Julian was educated at the CBS and took his love of the Irish language and the national games with him for life. He was active in GAA circles in Dublin and was a founder of Cumann na nDeiseach there which lasts to this day. It was they who organised the banquets for the All-Ireland teams from Waterford, particularly during the heady years of 1957 to 1963.
Julian was predeceased by his wife, May on July 28 1998, and life was never quite the same for him after that. He was a big man in every sense, who served Dungarvan in ways that few know about, but which, as a dedicated Deise man, he was proud and pleased to do. The passing of Julian Rheinisch severs a link with the past. To have known such an outstanding and upright man is much to be grateful for. His passing is much regretted and we extend to his family, Donal, Ann (Crossan), Helen (Clifford), Eamon, Killian, Pat, Mary, his cousins in law, daughters in law, 23 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren, our heartfelt sympathies at this time. An impressive concourse gathered at the graveside including Waterford County Board officials and many other officers from various aspects of GAA affairs as well as former players, household names of their day. As a final tribute, Mai O'Higgins' Dungarvan My Hometown, filled the air as the large concourse bade farewell to an old, ear and much respected friend, who will be missed by one and all.
Ar dheis De go raibh a hanam dilis.
- Courtesy of Waterford News & Star 10th May 2011
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