The Late Bernard O'Flaherty

News of the unexpected death of Bernard O'Flaherty , Moyderwell Tralee, on Saturday September 5, came as a great shock to his family and friends. Aged 66, Bernard passed away at Kerry General Hospital where he had been for short period of time.
Born on May 4, 1943, Bernard may well be remembered by the old stock of Boherbee and Tralee as a "squeaky clean' shiny altar boy in St John's Church, Castle Street, Tralee.
To others, he represented so much more. Early in life, Bernard's intellectual capacity was noted and would provide the basis for a proud and lengthy academic career. So much so, that when Bernard competed the Preparatory Exam in 1955 he came first in Ireland.
After his "stint" in Ballyvourney, Bernard went on to study at St. Patrick's Drumcondra and became a Primary School Teacher. Eager to continue his studies, he attended UCC, driving there every evening after teaching in Tralee.
After his BA he spent 18 years in Trinity College Dublin - three years as a postgrad and 15 in is professional capacity as an Educational Research Officer.
It was there that he met his wife Patricia, an Irish-Brazilian who was a fellow student reading for a Masters in Education. They married in 1972 and had their only child Kathryn in 1976.
Following his proud association with Trinity, Bernard decided to do the Dip Psych at UCD, a long-term ambition of his, so that he could work with children and adolescents.
After graduating, he embarked upon a successful career in educational psychology which he would continue for another 15 years. He was also known to provide psychological work on a voluntary basis to help those in greater need.
On a personal level, Bernard had a passion for Irish history and a great desire to see a united Ireland. He played music, loved handball, tried his hand at fishing, even receiving a trophy for fishing in the Amazon!
However, it was his love for all things green and gold, both local and county, that provided Bernard with his leisurely love. In fact, He was secretary of the John Mitchels Club in 1966, the year Mitchels last won the senior county Championship. It was also the club he was to support all his life.
Whilst in Dublin, Bernard always stayed connected to Tralee through his close Dublin based Tralee friends, including the annual weeks visit to the Parkgate Hotel by Eugue and Bernie Creagh.
How poignant it is, the role the entire Creagh family played in Bernard's life, particularly in his remaining day and years.
The removal of Bernard's remains took place from Hogan's Funeral Home to St John's Church on Monday, September 7.
Following Requiem Mass on Tuesday morning interment took place in New Rath Cemetery.
Bernard is mourned by his Patricia, daughter Kathryn, sister Boureen, niece Elaine, nephew Henry, brother-in-law Seanie, relatives and friends.
He will be missed by all who knew him.

Courtesy of The Kerryman
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