Pupils of Saint Oliver's Primary School in Killarney lined Rookery Road last Monday in a poignant farewell to retired principal Brendan Walshe whose funeral cortege was diverted to pass his workplace of 25 years, on the route to his final resting place at Killaha Graveyard in Glenflesk.
As well as being a pioneering educationalist who placed a major emphasis on social inclusion, Mr Walshe was immersed in the life of Kerry through his involvement in the GAA, politics and the church. His open, personable manner won him many friends. The former principal died peacefully at the Bon Secours Hospital, Tralee, in the early hours of last Saturday, March 23rd. His funeral took place to his native Glenflesk after 10.30am Requiem Mass which was concelebrated by Bishop Bill Murphy and a dozen priests in Saint Mary's Cathedral.
The St Oliver's school choir sang at the Mass. Sixth class pupils formed a guard of honour as did East Kerry GAA and the Glenflesk and Legion GAA clubs. "Brendan enjoyed life, he had many and various interests," Killarney PP Fr Kieran O'Brien said in his homily. "He gave a huge commitment to everything he did, it was all or nothing. He was known far and wide."
Fr O'Brien said that Brendan would be remembered as the first principal of St Oliver's and would be remembered by thousands of pupils. "He was generous in praising and offering encouragement," he said. "He remained proud of all his students and their achievements.
"Success was measured not on how brilliant they were or how well they did in life, but on how they achieved according to their ability and were happy in life."
Fr O'Brien said that after education, sport was the big interest in Brendan's life. He said he had served in every position in Bord na nOg sand on the East Kerry Board, of which he was president at the time of his death.
"Those who worked with him know he was a stickler for time," Fr Brien said. "Games and meetings always started and finished on time. His involvement in the GAA was recognised and rewarded by East Kerry GAA with a Hall of Fame award."
He said that he had enjoyed politics especially at election time, going door to door canvassing, meeting the people and the buzz as a tallyman in the count. Fr O'Brien outlined Brendan's commitment to the church as a reader, collector, steward, parish finance committee member and general volunteer.
"Every priest that went through this parish is indebted to him for his deep involvement and, on their behalf, I thank him," he said.
Fr O'Brien said Brendan was a great family man who was inspirational in the lives of his children and grandchildren who often visited the family home in Countess Road.
Brendan was a volunteer with the SVP. He also worked to improve Travellers' participation in education. Brendan's passing leaves a huge void for his wife, Mary, daughter, Sinead, son, Cathal and his many relatives and friends.

Kerry's Eye, 27th March 2014 Tweet

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