Remembering a true Gael

The death occurred on 19 February of Paddy Cogan, late of Grangenolvin House. Paddy was well known in farming, equestrian and GAA circles throughout the county. Although in later years his health did not permit his full pursuit of these interests he remained as informed and alert on these subjects as ever. Among the group of visionary men who saw the potential for a GAA club in his area Paddy was one of the most prominent members. Paddy attended the inaugural meeting of the Grangenolvin club in Mrs McCormick's in January 1955. The first game ever played by the club was in Cogan's field and a relationship that endures to this day through his grandnephew James Daly was cemented.
As a player Paddy served with distinction alongside his brothers Jimmy, Johnny and Hugh of Irishtown. The esteem with which these men were held among their generation was renowned, and they, with their team mates, formed a legendarily close and accomplished team which went from their foundation to a Leader Cup (Div 1) final in the space of 13 years.

A large guard of honour on both the night of the removal and day of burial was manned by the remaining members of his team and his neighbours from the club. While solemn in memory of Paddy and other fallen team mates, they had the easy rapport of men who had soldiered against the best in the county and as often as not finished with the upper hand. From founding member, player, chairman and supporter in every sense of the word Paddy set standards as a Gael which are an example to others.
The club wishes to extend its deepest sympathy to his sisters Josie, Gertie and May his nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives and friends.
Ar dheis De go raibh a anam uasil.


Courtesy of The Kildare Nationalist. Tweet

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