Castleisland, it was with great sadness that the family of Andrew O'Connor (better known as Andy Connor) said their final farewell to a man they loved so much.

Born on the 1st March 1939, he lived in Barness, Cordal, until he married Kathleen Johnson and they lived a happy life together for 46 years in Ardmona, Cordal, where they built their home.
Andy was a wonderful father to Tommy, Juliet, Mary, Caitriona and George. He loved and adored his grandchildren, Karen, Andrew, TJ, Noreen, Matthew, Andrew, John, Connie, Jane, Kayla, Shay, Ryan and Killian.
Andy's sports career was very successful. He thrived at football as a young man, winning a county championship minor medal in 1957. He also played with distinction for the Cordal seniors winning a district league medal. He took great pride in his jersey.
Athletics was another sport he excelled in, winning three Munster cross-country medals. When he began his career, his first prize was an alarm clock for a race around Powell's Road in Castleisland. Appointed one of three trustees in the local community centre, he was always involved in the background in the field and centre committees.
Andy worked hard all his life as he was also a silage contractor. He sold many a pig and spent many years working in Castleisland Mart. He was also a devout pioneer and wore his pin with great pride for 53 years.
As his health deteriorated in recent times, he needed 24 hour care. Kathleen found the most wonderful nursing home for him in Ashborough Lodge in Milltown. It provided such a homely atmosphere for him with wonderful carers, tending to his every need.
Andy will be remembered as a loving brother and will be sadly missed by all his family, Sisters Margaret, Nora, Mary, Kathleen and Shelia, brother Tadhg and his wife Doreen. They made endless trips to Milltown every week and supported him throughout his illness.
The family wish to thank Cordal GAA Club and Castleisland Mart for the guard of honour at his funeral.
Repose took place at Tangney's Funeral Home, Castleisland, on Thursday followed by removal to Cordal Parish Church. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Friday with burial afterwards in Tobar na bhFionn Cemetery, Cordal.

Taken from Kerry's Eye
May 6th, 2010 Tweet

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