The late Brendan Herbert On the 22nd of January 2006 the people of Ardagh and the surrounding areas were plunged into sadness on hearing of the untimely death of Brendan Herbert. For the past number of years Brendan had borne his illness with great courage, strength and dignity, never once complaining or asking "Why me"? His bravery toward his willingness to accept, his sheer determination and his strength of character during his illness was a shining example to all who knew him. Having been educated at Rathnamagh National School and later Crossmolina VS, Brendan took up in Hollister in 1987 where he remained up to his death. During his years in Hollister Brendan was employed in the Maintenance Department and in those 19 years, Brendan was found to be an exemplary employee and a most capable and talented craftsman. We remember him as an honest, hard-working, conscientious and obliging work colleague. He made many friends mainly due to his own warm presence, his kind personality, his quick wit, great sense of humour and fun. Evidence of his popularity was obvious to see in the huge attendance at his removal, funeral Mass and burial. The guard of honour was also evidence of the high esteem in which he was held. Brendan lived life to the full and had a great interest in sport, in particular Gaelic football where he represented his local club Ardagh with pride and distinction. He was a great follower of Mayo's fortunes and often made the trip to Croke Park to support the Red and Green. He also had a keen eye for horse racing and the annual days out in Hollister to Ballinrobe and Galway were always the best of craic. One of his other great interests was the farming life and he took great pride and care in the family farm. Indeed, his face was a familiar sight at the local mart and further afield at the pedigree sales in Carrick. Brendan had achieved more in his all too short life than most would achieve in a life-time. He was an outstanding husband, father, son and brother to his family. To his wife Anna, his son Shane, his daughter Aoife, his proud parents Jackie and Kathleen, brother John, sisters Sharon, Cora and Cathy, in laws and all his many relatives and large circle of friends, we extend our deepest sympathy. It has been our privilege and pleasure to have known and worked alongside Brendan over the years. His passing leaves a great void in all our lives, which will never be filled. He will be greatly missed, never forgotten and forever loved. As was said in the Homily, "more people like Brendan Herbert would make this place a better place". May his gentle soul rest in peace. Brendan Herbert, 1969 - 2006. From his friends and work colleagues in Hollister. Courtesy of the Western People 21 February 2006 Tweet

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