Groogan, Laurence
April 22, 2005
The Late Laurence Groogan
The 58 year old father of two from Gortnari, Moneyneena, Draperstown, was one of the best known personalities in Derry hurling. He was a former Chairman of the County Hurling Board and had been both a player and referee during his long association with the sport.
He was a member of St. Colm's G.A.C. Ballinascreen, with which his son and daughter are associated, and of which his brother, John is Vice-Chairman.
Another brother Patsy who is the Sinn Fein Chairman of Magherafelt District Council, said of Laurence, that he had "dedicated his life to hurling, to Ballinascreen, to Derry and to his family."
Laurence's Ballinascreen clubmate Tony Scullion, who was a member of Derry's All-Ireland winning football side in the early 90s, said: "the GAA flowed in his blood". He would be a "very sore loss to the entire parish and county", Mr Scullion added.
Mr Groogan was a highly esteemed and loyal employee of Heron Brothers Ltd., Draperstown, for many years.
He was the loving husband of Susanna, nee Kerr, and devoted father to Michael James and Laura.
He is also survived by his brothers, John, Brian and Patsy, sister Briege Bradley, aunt Rose, nephews, nieces and family circle.
The funeral at St. Eugene's Church, Moneyneena, was one of the largest seen in the parish for many years. The large congregation which braved the atrocious weather to pay their last respects to a popular and well liked man, included GAA representative from football, hurling and camogie, politicians and business people.
Requiem Mass was celebrated by Rev. Peter Madden, C.C., who also officiated at the interment in the adjoining cemetery.
Courtesy of the Mid Ulster Observer
21st April 2005
Most Read Stories