The late Martin Joe O'Connor News of the death of the publican and horse breeder Martin Joe O'Connor, Ballinderreen, was heard with sadness by the wide circle of all his friends and indeed among those with whom he had come in contact both socially and in business. Martin Joe succeeded his late father Michael as proprietor of O'Connor's - the late 19th century-established licensed premises and hub of Ballinderreen's social life. He went on to develop an interest in farming and, in particular, the breeding of horses for hunting and show jumping. Martin Joe will be remembered for his genial manner and for his liveliness in conversation, particularly his wit. He was President of Ballinderreen GAA Football Club and Vice-president of Ballinderreen Hurling Club. November 6 was significant in Martin Joe's life - it was the date of his birth seventy six years ago, the date of his wedding, and the date of his admission to hospital. His interment was the first in the extension to Drumacoo Cemetery. His remains were removed from his home to St. Colman's Church, Ballinderreen, and the following day, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Minister PP, was Chief Celebrant at the Concelebrated Requiem Mass. He was assisted by Very Rev. Fr. Frank Larkin PP (Kinvara), Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Considine PP (Rosmuc), Very Rev. Fr. Des Forde PP (Ballyvaughan), Very Rev. Cannon Joe Kelly, former PP of Ardrahan, Very Rev. Canon Alfie O'Halloran, former PP Ballinderreen, and Rev. Martin Keane CC (Kilcornan). Martin Joe O'Connor was predeceased by his brothers, Very Rev. Canon Michael O'Connor, and by Phonsie. He is survived by his wife Dolly; by his sons, Michael, Fergal, Niall and Aonghus; by his daughter, Catherine; by his granddaughter Sadhbh and her mother, Maria; by his sisters, Chrissie and Annie; by other relatives and a large circle of friends. Courtesy of the Connacht Tribune 19 January 2007 Tweet

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