The Late Pat O'Connor The recent death of Pat O'Connor, Rathinure, Glenmore brought a deep sense of sadness and loss to us all, and in particular to those who knew him well. Fitting with his strength of character, and to protect those close to him, he gave little notice that he was unwell. His full involvement with all parish activities continued uninterrupted, up to the time he went to hospital certainly not evidence that his long life was about to end. First and foremost, Pat was a family man and his love and affection for his wife Kathleen and children P.J. and Patricia was clearly evident to those who came in contact with him. When life dealt some hard blows, and his strengths of character was greatly tested, Pat displayed a belief and bravery that was an example to us all and something, which his family must be immensely proud of. His long service to Waterford Co-Op during his working life will long be remembered . He made a tremendous contribution to the development of the Co-Op and helped to implement many of the big changes, which took place there over that time. Such was his jovial and welcoming character that he was greatly missed by all when he finally retired. In a quiet way Pat was interested in the GAA an association he served not only as a player of great skill and ability, but also as an administrator with Glenmore club over the duration of his life. The pleasure and delight which derived from his son P.J. and nephews Eddie and Willie, playing the same of hurling to such a high standard was reflective of a man who believed that nothing less that your best was acceptable. Apart from family and hurling. Pat had many other interests. He had a great love for the game of cards, travelling to venues all over South Kilkenny to play with his many friends. Like all other interests Pat showed great commitment to the game and often with much success. From an early age Pat joined the Fine Gael party and was a tireless worker in helping to develop the organisation both inside the parish and outside. He was frequent attended at the Piltown Executive meetings in Mullinavat and never missed a social event associated with Fine Gael in the district. As well as having President of the Glenmore branch, he was also honourary president of the Piltown District Executive. As a native of Glenmore and having lived all his life there, he was immensely proud of his home parish. The achievements of the hurling club in winning county championship and in particular securing the highest accolade of any club- The All Ireland Club Championship, coupled with the McCarthy cup being brought to Glenmore by his two nephews, on two different occasions, gave him a profound sense of inner delight and satisfaction. He saw all of this as a reflection on everyone, who had contributed so much to hurling, and that high level of achievement, down through the years. Cllr Dick Dowling who gave the graveside oration, said that on a personal level, he had high personal regard for Pat and said their friendship went way back to their hurling days. "On many occasions we travelled to matches together and he was always the one who gave me good advice, whether it was playing the game, refereeing or for that matter on many political matters. "In all of my election campaigns, Pat always participated and assisted whenever he could, and for that I will be eternally grateful to him. "I deem his sudden passing, as a personal sense of loss and his wit and good humour will be missed by all of us that knew him. "On behalf of the Fine Gael party, I wish to extend our deepest sympathy to Kathleen, Patricia and P.J. and all his relatives and friends. I would like to say how much we all appreciated and valued the life of a Christian man who had a deep influence on us all," Cllr dowling said. Courtesy of the Kilkenny People 20th May 2005 Tweet

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