Quinlan, John
August 25, 2005
The Late John Quinlan
John Quinlan, who was killed in a tragic road accident on August 8, 2005 was a talented footballer who played at all levels.
He died when his bicycle was struck from behind by a car travelling in the same direction on the road between Macroom and Ballincollig.
John was born to Tommy and Aine Quinlan of 7 Ballyrickard Close, Tralee and formerly of Meadowlands, Tralee.
He was second eldest of a family of four and was only 30 years old at the time of his death.
He attended CBS primary school and later went to school at The Green CBS in Tralee. It was during this time that John's ability as a footballer became clear. He played as full back for Kerin's O'Rahillys from the underage teams right up to senior level and he also represented his school at all levels.
He was an accomplished footballer with an abundance of skill, strength and intelligence.
John, who also played underage soccer with Tralee Dynamos, was an all round sportsman and took up cycling after he suffered double cruciate knee ligament injuries in the early nineties, which ended his footballing career.
After leaving school, John attended Waterford IT for four years graduating as a Bachelor of Business Studies with Honours.
He late started working in Dublin and during this time he successfully took his accountancy exams, becoming a Chartered Management Accountant (CIMA).
John always sought to challenge himself and seek out new opportunities and in 1999, he moved to Dell in Limerick where he continued working as an accountant.
He later moved to Leixlip to work with Intel as a Project Accountant. It was only a year ago that John moved to Cork with Flextronics.
At that time, John and his girlfriend of over nine years, Anne O'Callaghan from Caherweesheen, Tralee bought a house in Ballincollig. John and Anne's love was clear to all that knew them.
The huge crowds in attendance at his parents home and later at his funeral bore a fitting tribute to the popularity of John and his family.
In addition, the large number of his work colleagues present demonstrated the high esteem in which John was held in his profession.
A guard of honour was provided by Kerin's O'Rahillys GAA Club at both his removal and funeral.
John was a loving son to Tommy and Aine and inherited many of their traits. He was a gentleman in every respect, always pleasant, caring and generous.
He excelled at everything he attempted through an abundance of natural ability allied to his undoubted commitment.
It is fair to say that John gave 100 per cent to everything he ever did.
He was a great friend to many people and could always be relied upon to provide support and advice to those around him.
He enriched many an occasion with his good humour and sense of fun.
The many life-long friends that attend that attended his funeral bore testimony to his many qualities.
His remains were received in St John's Tralee on August 11 by his uncle Mgr Michael Quinlan, Stockport. His requiem Mass at St John's Tralee was concelebrated by his three uncles Fr John Quinlan, Bolton and Mgr Michael Quinlan Stockport who was accompanied by Mgr Dan O'Riordan, Tralee, Fr Tom Leane, Tralee, Fr Tomas O'Caoimh, Tralee, Fr Neilus Flynn, Kilmoyley, Fr John O'Rourke, OP, Tralee, Fr Brendan Quilter Manchester, Fr Michael McEgan, SMA, Fr Dan Cashman, SMA, Fr John Horgan, SMA, Fr Pat Lynch, SMA, Fr John Healy USA, and Fr Billy Foley, SMA.
John was laid to rest in Rath Cemetery.
He is survived by his parents, Tommy and Aine, brother Tomas, sisters Noreen and Maura, girlfriend Anne, uncles, aunts, grand-uncle, brother-in-law, Liam, nephew Sam,relatives and friends.
John may be gone but the many memories he gave his family and friends during his short life will stay with them forever.
May he rest in peace.
Courtesy of The Kerryman
25th August 2005
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