McAloon, Padraig
July 31, 2013The recent death of Padraig McAloon (32), Mullanvaum School House, Corranny, Roslea, evoked widespread genuine sorrow and regret. He was the only son of Packie and Bridget McAloon, and a brother to Majella, Sinead, Concepta, Christine and Edel. He was the youngest in the family.
He had many facets - a senior care worker in Barnlee Residential Home in Lisnaskea, a stage performer with the Knocks Drama Group, an Ulster finalist in Scor (recitation) and a three times' All-Ireland winner with St Macartan's Band, Roslea.
After attending St Mary's Primary School Brookeborough, and St Eugene's College, Roslea, Padraig entered South West College (Omagh campus) where he secured an NVQ Level 3 in Health and Social Care.
In 2004, he took up his posting in Barnlee, a residential home for adults with learning disabilities.
Its manager, Geraldine O'Neill said that, to the residents he worked for and the staff he worked with, 'he was first and foremost a true friend, a person who could be relied on to do his best to make every day the best day of the week'. "He was the life and soul of the party, modest and humble, full of fun, totally unaware of the legacy he bestowed on many.
"Padraig had a large heart and a unique personality which he shared with everyone he came into contact with. He was loving, generous, willing to share his time and knowledge. He was full of fun, but had a serious side to him as well, as a defender and encourager of friends and anyone he felt needed his support." She said the residents in particular benefited from Padraig's values: "Our lives have been enriched from having known him."
From a young age, Padraig competed at Fermanagh & Lisnaskea feis ean na, he was a member of St Macartan's Band, enjoyed traditional Irish music, played hurling locally and, was an under-age hurling trainer with Aghadrumsee GAC.
He enjoyed travel, and went to Lourdes as a volunteer. As a card player, he was a familiar face in halls throughout Fermanagh and Tyrone during the winter months. For numerous years, Padraig competed in the 'Recitation' category in Scor and represented Fermanagh at Ulster level. He also participated in the Scor Novelty Act for his club.
He was a valued member of the Knocks Drama Group, his last performance being 'Dan' in 'The Maiden Aunt', and he was a member of the cast of 'Thy Will Be Done' who performed in the Ardhowen Theatre in September, 2011. A spokesman for the group said Padraig had a commanding stage presence and an uncanny ability to get straight into character. "In comedy performances, he left people with sore sides, laughing."
The impact of his death was most acutely felt within the family where family life was the centre of Padraig's life. He enjoyed family celebrations and get togethers, and he was also an entertainer at home, especially for his eight nieces and two nephews.
A large volume of mourners attended the wake, and the funeral Mass at St Macartan's Church, Aghadrumsee.
Relatives, friends and groups shared in the carrying of the coffin from the family home, and, numerous groups within the community were represented in the guard of honour.
The celebrant of the Mass was Fr Cathal Deery. The readers were Patrick Tiemey and Aidan Connolly, brothers-in-law.
Among the symbols brought to the altar were the Cavan Crystal Trophy presented to Padraig by Aghadrumsee GAC in recognition of his Ulster Scor final appearance, Fermanagh Scor medals, a Fermanagh jersey and sliothar, a tin whistle, a picture of Padraig on stage, a cactus plant and a pack of playing cards.
Courtesy of the Fermanagh Herald. Tweet
