Colgan, Joseph
November 18, 2009
Atticall man with a listening ear for friends and family
It was with a shock and regret that the Mourne and wider community learned of the sudden death of Mr Joseph Colgan of 109 Tullyframe Road, Atticall, Kilkeel.
He passed away on 27 October, aged just 53.
Joseph was a much-loved husband, father, son, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, work-mate, club member, neighbour and friend.
A bricklayer by trade, he built his own home and worked cheerfully on many sites to provide for his family, whose needs he always put first. His wife and children fondly remember his sense of adventure and 'have a go' attitude, especially on family holidays.
Many young men in the area began their working lives under Joseph's steady instruction before moving on to their own trades.
A lifelong member of Atticall GFC, no job was ever too big or too small - be it team management or collecting glasses at club functions. Joseph was also a steadfast and loyal Down supporter. The father of three girls, he was always a valued advocate of camogie.
His ever-ready smile, layers of coats and witty humour will be sadly missed in gaelic circles.
Joseph was also a keen soccer fan and an avid Chelsea supporter from boyhood. All this led to much good hearted banter with workmates and friends.
He always promoted the importance of community spirit through his support of, and assistance at, local events.
Joseph was a man of faith. Many, who thought of their need, were surprised when he would return from an annual trip to Knock and say he had offered a special prayer for them.
Despite a busy family, working and supporting life, Joseph often brought local news and craic to his house-bound neighbours and residents of Brooklands Nursing Home, where he frequently visited his father Henry.
Joseph provided a listening ear when needed for both friends and family. He had a word and a smile for everyone he met, regardless of age, gender, race or creed.
Joseph is survived by his wife Rosemary; daughters Sinead, Rachel and Michaela; father Henry; sister Sharon; brothers Sean, Seamus, Martin and Mervyn; brother-in-law; sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his mother Rosaleen and younger brother Noel.
The funeral Mass was celebrated by Fr Tony Fitzsimons in St Colman's Church, Massforth, with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Joseph's Month's Mind Mass will be in Holy Cross Church, Atticall, on Sunday, 22 November at 10.15am.
18th November 2009
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