The Late Denis Nolan

The Rathvilly area of Carlow was saddened to learn of the death of Denis (Dinny) Nolan, 17 Collins Park, Rathvilly, who passed away on Friday 27 August at his residence, following a 13-month battle with illness. He had recently celebrated his 67th birthday on 4 August.

A sociable man, Dinny enjoyed a drink and the craic, being a popular individual within his local community. A native of Paulville, Tullow, he played Gaelic football with the Paulville team of the 1950s, lining out in goal. Dinny was always an avid supporter of the Rathvilly and Carlow county teams. he was always a colourful character when donning the most colourful hats and making the most noise.

His three sons Denis, Patrick and David all played for Rathvilly and lined out in the Carlow county colours. Dinny was immensely proud of the fact that David captained Rathvilly to the club's seventh Carlow SFC in 2009.

A pipe-layer by occupation, Dinny Nolan was an industrious man. In his younger days, he worked locally on land drainage schemes. His skills were in demand and he, along with his son Patrick, were seconded by a UK company to work on projects in and around the London area. He was again to be headhunted and finished his working days for a local civil engineering company, up to the time of his illness.

Dinny's remains were removed from his home on Sunday morning, and in a wonderfully touching gesture, the local football team flanked the procession for the entire journey from his residence to the church, and again to the cemetery. Mass was at 11 o'clock in St Patrick's Church.

Fr Michael Kelly, PP, Rathvilly celebrated the Mass, during which he paid tribute to the life of Dinny Nolan. His son Denis also paid a moving tribute to his dad on behalf of the family and thanked everyone for their wonderful support. In particular, Denis thanked Hilda, Dinny's wife for her amazing tireless work and the strength she showed throughout, despite Dinny's worsening condition.
Burial took place immediately afterward in the local cemetery, with Fr Kelly reciting the final prayers at the graveside. The enormous crowds that turned out were a testament to the wonderful man Dinny was, and the respect he enjoyed in the community.

Very much a family man, he is survived by his wife Hilda, daughters Denise and Therese (Rathvilly), sons Patrick and David (Rathvilly) and Denis (Kilkenny), his brother Jimmy (Paulville), and sisters Rose Brady (Wicklow) and Mary Callan (Portlaoise). Dinny is also survived by his 12 grandchildren, to whom he was very devoted.

Courtesy of the Nationalist
7th September 2010 Tweet

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