The late Conal O'Hare The recent tragic and untimely death of Conal O'Hare, at the age of 27, has shocked and numbed his heartbroken family, friends, neighbours and all of those who knew and loved him. Conal was the son of John and Anne O'Hare, of Leestone Road, Ballymartin, and is also survived by brothers Patrick, Jonathon, Stephen and Charles and sisters Catherine, Geraldine, Bridgid and Ruth. He was educated at Star of the Sea PS, Lisnacree, St Joseph's PS, Ballymartin, and St Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel. Academically, he enjoyed literature an was well read. Reading was a pastime instilled in him by his mother from childhood. Irish literature, in particular The Lives of the GAA Greats, were his favourites. However, inherited from his late grandmother, his first love was history, both American and Irish. He often had debates with his sister Ruth on historical issues and said he would have liked to continue his studies in history and politics as she had done. During his school days, he showed extraordinary ability in athletics, winning medals and trophies at all sporting events. From an early age, he joined the local Ballymartin Football Club and portrayed signs of his father's sporting excellence. Encouraged by his brothers Patrick, Jonathon and Stephen, who also played for the Ballymartin team, he developed this natural skill until he became one of their most talented and valued players. During matches, there seemed to be an almost 'telepathic connection' between Conal and his younger brother Charles. When one had the ball, it often was destined for the other automatically. This unique bond had developed over 20 years of playing and practising side by side. Only two weeks before his death, the two brothers had discussed their ambitions for the coming season and the success they wanted to achieve for themselves and their team. Conal had a great desire to be fit and in the evenings, if he was not training for the local club, he worked on his own fitness regime, running and weight training. Quite frequently he took the time to inspire others, including his nieces and nephew, by demonstrating his skills with fun and enthusiasm. Having an artistic flair was of great benefit when serving his apprenticeship as a joiner with his brother Patrick. He took great pride in his work and just last summer, with his exceptional craftsmanship, he transformed his sister Brigid's house to a standard of perfection. He and his brother Stephen had recently started their own successful business in his trade. Although only 27, Conal had lived his life to the full. He shared his sister Geraldine's aspirations to experience different cultures. He spent a year in Australia with his friend Darren. They worked their way along the East and West coasts, residing in many cities such as Perth, Sydney and Cairns. Another close friend, Connaire, accompanied him travelling through Europe, visiting countries including the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Croatia. Conal was of quiet demeanour and calm disposition. He was a happy-go-lucky type of person and enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, especially nature and wildlife. Fishing was a hobby he actively pursued, guided by his brother Jonathon's knowledge and expertise. In the long summer evenings, he liked to fish for lobster and mackerel with his brothers and friends, and looked forward to returning home to sample his catch. He also engaged in rod fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. Many an evening after work, he relaxed by walking the dog along the shore to his uncle's farm, where he had the 'craic' with the Morgan family. He also enjoyed socialising and had a profound appreciation of music. His selective sense of humour, expressed openly in the way he smiled, and his intelligent wit were recognised and admired by those who knew him best. The death of Conal will leave a huge void in his home, team and workplace. The testimony of the crowds that came to mourn his loss is sufficient to ensure his name is inscribed forever in this life. He will be sadly missed by all and most importantly his family will grieve always for a loving and much loved son and brother. (Contributed by sister Catherine) Courtesy of The Mourne Observer 19 July 2006 Tweet

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