Paudge Dack - An Appreciation Autumn and the harvesting. A busy season and none busier than the Grim Reaper. As usual, a rich harvest. None richer than Paudge Dack of Maudlin Street, Thomastown. An individual worth knowing was Paudge; a decent man of many parts. So many natural and gentlemanly traits prevailed; solid so, loving husband, caring father, proud grandad, reliable friend and dedicated community member. When a body reflects on and retraces Paudge's footsteps one realises just what a humble man can contribute to society and his fellow man. Paudge's story begins in 1919, where his proud parents Tommy & Lizzie (nee Byrne) welcomed their new addition to their happy abode on The Quay. Two brothers completed the family, Sonny and Mick. Memories galore of that pair, sound successful men, Sonny astride his powerful mo bike, flashing by. His contribution in the foundation and promotion of the Kilkenny men's Association in London is history now. Mick was to say the least, a colourful character, Emigration claimed both Mick an Sonny. All gone now. But Paudge rooted locally. Schooling was to the local Convent of Mercy and Thomastown Boys' National school. Today we blindly and readily accept modern educational facilities. Not so in the early '30's. Paudge, blessed with the gift of hands, was welcomed by local carpenter Willie Mackey, Logan Street. A fruitful relationship culminated in the emergence of a bubbling and talented master craftsman. Time dictated the setting up of Paudge's private enterprise, his workshop and base in Maudlin Street. An excellent location, in the midst of the Stapleton, Dunne, Doyle, Keeffe, Lonergan, Hale and Sheehan clans. Fine quality people belonging to an era where folk had nothing and everything. Some contrast today, vice versa actually. How quickly Paudge's talents were recognised and appreciated. His memorials continued to enhance our locality. Why not admire them; P.F. Kelly's, Ryan the Tanners, O'Shea Russell's, Danny Bolger's, numerous others. Luckily his skills live on via the imparted guidance conferred on those who were privilegd to serve their apprenticeships under Paudge's tuition. Some well known names come to mind, Messrs O'Neill, Challoner, Treacy, , Minogue, Murphy, Whelan and Heafey. In latter years the business has gently ticked over, with the capable Danny Dack, Paudge's friend, nephew and right arm ensuing an efficient and continuous customer service. In '54 the tradesman's career was nicely interupted. Matrimonial bliss to Statia Synott; a pleasant, friendly and rewarding union. Two girls, Elizabeth and Ann completed the happiness. Alas, alas, God spoke and Statia rambled to a just reward, much too soon afer a mere 14 years. But the deep rooted faith of Paudge ordained the acceptance of his cross and his girls can reflect on the gift of a caring man, who insured a most happy upbringing. This father was certainly a good humoured, positive and courageous character. But this man was more than just a husband, father and craftsman. How he personified his Christian beliefs by his contributions to the needs of hs fellowman; not by word but by deed. The wheelchair brigade was his second family. What a familiar face was Paudge behind the wheel of the associaiton's bus. Distance, time and energy meant nought. GAA pitches nationwide were invaded; seasides; concert and dance halls 'aye and historic sites galor. Dare we mention the odd pub. The lifestles of the less privileged were certainly enhanced. The annual Lourdes trip was a highlight. Paudge's maiden trip was in '58, the first of his 42 pilgrimages. Thankfully the work of the Brancarder Brigade lives on. Alas, their chief has departed. But not from their hearts and minds and so, Paudge's work lives on. And this gentleman was never slow to substantiate his chariable dispositions by action. Way back in '75 we remember Paudge completeing a twenty four hour walk. So much, much more. Money raised had but one home. Small wonder that the county showed their appreciation of a unsung hero by conferring on Paudge the honour of "Kilkenny Man of the Year", 1986. Paudge's sporting hobbies were widespread. Golf, billiards, cross country running, handball, gardening, bee-keeping, walking and travel. Number one, however, was his beloved GAA. '29 was the first visit to Croke Park and the annual visit was climaxed, most enjoyably, in '03. But this sportsman was no mere hurling spectator. A most gifted wielder of the camán was Paudge, very prominent wih his local Thomastown H.C. and some notable highlights. Proudly he captained Kilkenny to an All-Ireland junior title in '47. On the following year, Paudge courageously spear-headed Thomastown to its first and only senior hurling title, against no less, the mighty men of Carrickshock. Yes, this man was worth knowing, so much living in such a simple character. Ann, Elizabeth and the extended Dack clan can surely glean hope, strength, comfort and consolation from the memories of an individual who walked tall. The void is there but God is good and time wonderful. The multitudes that thronged both church and graveyard said it all. A man was going home. And paudge, he's safely home, a fine addition to one of the many rooms in the good God's kingdom. With a new apprentice no less, St. Joseph. May he rest in peace. 'Tis well earned. Courtesy of the Kilkenny People October 2004 Tweet

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