McGroarty, Thomas
January 27, 2011It was with great sadness the news of the passing of one of our most loyal members and supporters was received on Sunday January 16th. Tommy as he was affectionately known in Donegal Town and indeed across the length and breath of the country was a popular man who left a positive impression on all who encountered him either through G.A.A. or his professional life in Donegal Town.
Tommy had a relatively short football playing career starting with St.Mary's College in Dundalk. He also played with his beloved four masters G.A.A. Club when he returned home but gave up the game after a few years to concentrate on running the family business 'Mc Groarty's Bar' on Bridge Steet, known locally at the time as 'The Bowery'.
In 1976, the family purchased a property on the diamond to where 'McGroarty's Bar' relocated and went on to become one of the most famous G.A.A. hostelries in Ireland. It was also the spiritual home of the local Club and Tommy was certainly a proud man when Four Masters brought home the senior Football Championship and Dr. Maguire Cup in 1982, 1984 and 2003. He took great pride as well in his Club's underage teams who brought silverware to the Diamond on many occasions.
He often talked about two of his most cherished memories when his good friend, Tom Conaghan, led the Donegal Under 21's to All-Ireland success in 1982 and then Brian McEniff and Donegal achieved the ultimate glory and brought the 'Sam Maguire' back to the Diamond in 1992.
However, he will be remembered most for his passionate love and support of Club na gCeithre Maistir. He was an active committee member and served in the position of President on a number of occasions. 'Mc Groarty's Bar' sponsored the Club's adult football teams for many years and also sponsored a 13-a-side football tournament that was played in Townawilly and Tir Conaill Park in the 1980's for the. 'McGroarty Cup'.
Our deepest sympathy to his wife Deidre, daughters Paula and Brenda, sons, Jack and Brian as well as the extended McGroarty family and friends. May he rest in Peace.
Courtesy of the Donegal Demorcrat 27/1/11 Tweet
