Many people in the Beara and surrounding districts are again mourning the loss of a dear friend with the deeply regretted death, which took place at St. Joseph's Hospital, Castletownbere, of Mr Patrick (Paddy) Crowley MPSI Medical Hall, West End, Castletownbere. Paddy, as he was better known, was a member of an old established and highly esteemed family. During his long years as a Pharmacist in the family business, his outgoing, sincere nature, integrity and courtesy truly marked him out as one of nature's honest gentlemen. An unassuming man, his quiet good humour commended him to young and old alike. It was always a pleasure to meet and chat with him concerning his proud connection with the game of ruby down the decades. He also had a great interest in golf and gaelic games. Paddy Crowley was a kind and thoughful neighbour, held in the warmest regard by wide circle of friends, who will deeply and justifiably mourne his passing and long cherish his memory. The respect and high regard in which deceased and his family are held was evidenced at the removal to the Church of the Sacred Heart, when the remains were received and blessed on arrival by Rev. Fr Jim Lenihan, Adm., assisted by Rev. Fr Sean O'Shea. Following Requiem Mass, the interment took place in Droum cemetery. Assisted by Rev. Fr. Martin Sheehan, Adm., and Fr. Sean O'Shea, the rev. Jim Lenehin celebrated the Mass and officiated at the graveside. Public representatives, sporting clubs, commercial concerns joined old friends and neighbours in a final fitting tribute to a truly Christian gentleman who was liked by all who had the undoubted pleasure of his acquaintance. Paddy's exceptionately mild manner and outgoing sincere nature commended him to everyone. He always gave of his full to any activity in which he was involved. An accomplished and interesting conversationalist, he possessed a wonderful personality. He was a thoughtful, sociable neighbour who made an immediate and lasting impression on all those fortunate enough to come into contact with him. Paddy was a very jolly person and made friends easily with his ready wit and good sense of humour. Growing up we were close neighbours and class mates at the old Brandy Hall National School and remained good friends down the years and often spoke of past times here in Castletownbere. After leaving the National School Paddy went on to Mungret College in Limerick and it was here he got interested in rugby and went as far as having a trial for Munster on an occasion. He also played Gaelic football with the Castletownbere GAA club until that club was suspended because of the foreign games ban. Following that the town had a very useful rugby team for several years on which Paddy was an outstanding player, with opponents from the British Army base on Bere Island and the Naval vessels in the harbour. Golf was another love of his life and he was Captain and President of Berehaven Golf Club on several occasions. After qualifying as a chemist he returned to Castletownbere to work with WM Swanton who was a long established Pharmacy at the Medical Hall and when William Swanton decided to retire Paddy took over the business and operated it for over 70 years. Paddy was a great lover of the theatre and was very active in the local Dramatic Society. As well as writing many scripts and songs for the group he played many parts in their concerts. In 1961 the Society put on a production of Little Riding Hood in the Berehaven Hall. This was the first pantomime in Castletownbere in many years and the script was written by Paddy who also played the part of Razz. The Society did a lot of good work for charity and they travelled off on Sundays with the cast and scenery being transported on the back of a lorry. When his youngest son, Paddy qualified as a chemist they decided to move their business to a premises in the square and after watching it succeed, Paddy Snr, decided to retire and devote more time to the game or golf which he loved. Young Paddy was also a noted golfer winning many trophies in his brief lifetime. The business on the Square flourished for a number of years until the very untimely death of young Paddy twenty one years ago at the sage of 29. His death came as a sad and hard blow to his parents and brother, Dr Tony. Early this year Paddy and his wife May had to endure another great shock with the untimely death of their other son Dr Tony. This proved a crippling blow to the parents. Deepest condolences in her sad loss is tendered to his sorrowing wife May, daughter in law Mary, relatives and friends. May the Lord look kindly on you Paddy and with these few lines we bid you farewell. Beara has lost a favourite son. Great stories he always could tell, Some were sad, some were fun, His talent we knew very well. Paddy has left us forever, But his memory will last, In the days that have passed, And his charm we will always treasure. Ar dheis do go raibh a h-ainim dhilis. - Southern Star, 18th October 2008 Tweet

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