Born in 1930 and a native of Dromlara, William O'Dwyer was to become one of the Community's most respected citizens. Growing up in the farming industry, he quickly adapted to the lifestyle to become a successful and enterprising achiever. The GAA was part of rural life and in Pallasgreen it was the popular pastime. William had arrived on the scene and was part of the Renaissance which began in the 40's. At just 18 years of age he was a member of the junior football team in 1948 that defeated Athea in the county final. His physique for a young man was always going to put him in demand for both hurling and football but William being the quiet and enthusiastic man he was, he never said no. Eight years on in 1956, his proud moment came when he captained the club to victory in the county junior football final defeating City team St. Patrick's. More County honours followed two years later in 1958 when he was involved with the Junior hurlers as they defeated Cavanagh in the County final at Kilmallock. William kept plugging away on the playing pitch until the early sixties, but he didn't finish there, he decided to give something back into the club. What enjoyment he got out of it. He became a selector to the Junior hurling team in 1968 and this proved to be another momentous year for the parish as the Junior hurling championship was annexed at the hands of St. Mary's of Rathkeale at the Gaelic Grounds. This victory means that William has the unique distinction of becoming the only person to be involved in all County final victories of 1948, '56 '58, and 1968. He had energy in abundance and joined the Community Council in 1964 where later on, he became one of its trustees. But is was the Gaelic Athletic Association that he derived his sense of pride. He saw the need of a playing pitch in the Area. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes and his persuasive powers of the Community Council, saw his efforts realised. Development work began and excitement was at fever pitch for all concerned. His commitment towards the project left no bounds, he volunteered the use of his machinery and one could say "that his machinery spent more time working on the new playing pitch than at home." Such was the pride he had in the local club. The day had finally come in 1976 when the playing field was officially opened. The field today can stand as a monument for his total commitment and dedication as he saw the seeds grow to a wonderful bloom. A few years later he was elected Life-President of the GAA club, an honour for his great work and service he invested to the club.William O'Dwyer, a gentle giant and a quiet unassuming person has left his mark as a person who saw his vision realised which will cater for generations to come. William had great pride in the Community and became one of the founding members of the residents association. He was very highly regarded in projects he took on. His workmanship and skill displayed what great talent he had. William was very much an outdoor man and he could often be seen walking the land, a chore he continued with near his passing. He got great satisfaction from having his grandchildren around him as he was a very proud family man. The large turnout at his funeral showed the esteem in which he was held. The local GAA club along with the Community Council and the local Fianna Fail Cumann formed a guard of honour at both the removal and interment. Sympathies are extended to his wife Kathy, daughters Celia, Sadie, Mary and Ann, the sons Tommy, Joe, Pat, Willie and John, relatives and friends. Funeral was from Ryan's Funeral Home to Nicker Church and following Requiem Mass, interment took place in Doon cemetery. The grave side oration was delivered by Tony Green, Chairman of Pallasgreen GAA club and the hurlers prayer was recited by Pat Fitzgerald, County Board Development officer. Courtesy of The Limerick Leader October 2002 Tweet

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