Music lovers everywhere learned of the death of Phonsie Bogle, Roscor and more recently Behey with deep sadness. Phonsie, a familiar face at many music venues in south Donegal and Fermanagh was a native of Roscor in Belleek but spent most of his life in the quiet countryside of Behey in Cashelard, outside Ballyshannon.
The Fermanagh man was legendary in music circles especially in the thriving resort of Bundoran where he spent much of his time entertaining visitors during the summer months. Philip McGlynn recalls, "Phonsie was a larger than life character in every way - he was more or less resident in the Holyrood Hotel where he played with both Cormac McCready and Brian McEniff. "The three of them produced some great music night after night and people came back year after year purely for their entertainment.
"Phonsie in fact stepped into one of Ireland's greatest entertainers shoes when he took over from Paul Brady."
Another man who has fond memories of the young Phonsie is Michael McMahon who grew up next door to the Roscor man.
He recalls, "He was a much fitter man than me and excelled himself on the football field; not only for his club but also at both minor and under 21 levels for Fermanagh. He gave as good as he got and I'm sure there might be a few still around who still feel the odd twinge in the bones after a hard but clean tackle from him."
Alan Chapman the accomplished Bundoran musician who played with Phonsie for many years said, " He was an extremely talented and generous man, had a great sense of humour and never got excited or stressed about anything.
Phonsie is survived by his partner Carol and daughter Farrah and son Blaine.
Bill Greaves, Ballyshannon, a life long friend, said his like will never be seen again. Bill, some years ago, wrote a song in tribute to Phonsie - 'Bogle the Balladeer' which catches the essence and brilliance of the man.
On Facebook, Bill stated: "A legend has past, the 'big man' has gone. Lost a very dear and close friend, one Phonsie Bogle, my musical left arm and a dear, dear friend for 45 years.
"A gentleman with a kind heart and plenty of compassion, who entertained millions, the only way he knew how - to perfection."
His funeral mass took place yesterday, Wednesday, in St Mary's Church in Cashelard yesterday with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
May he rest in peace.

- Donegal Democrat
September 5th 2013 Tweet

Most Read Stories