The late Des May The death took place peacefully on Sunday, October 30th of Des May, The Neale Road, Ballinrobe. He was a native of Main Street, Ballinrobe, and his passing was deeply lamented. A veterinary surgeon by calling, his professional expertise was widely acknowledged by the farming sector. Des was also involved in the development of eel fishing for a number of years. He enriched communal life by his presence and his voice was always a prudent one when decisions had to he made. Leadership qualities, never over assertive, manifested themselves in many of the significant happenings in the town - the provision of An Sportlann, now known as the Lakeside Sport and Fitness Club, twenty-one years ago, the establishment of the Community School, and the development of the highly acclaimed golfing facility at Clooncastle, on the outskirts of the town. A man of deep Christian faith, Des served as Minister of the Eucharist and a reader in St. Mary's Church. As a member of Pastoral Council, his contributions always evoked an attentive ear. In his younger days, Des displayed his prowess on the playing field, winning a Flanagan Cup medal with Ballinrobe CBS, and a county junior medal with the local club in 1958. Golf became his main recreational outlet in later years. Mild mannered, unassuming, he was an interesting conversationalist and could enliven any gathering. He will sorely be missed by his wife Geraldine and family, and the community at large. His remains were removed form Cummins Funeral Home to St Mary's Church, Ballinrober, on Monday evening and the burial took place in the new cemetery after concelebrated Requiem Mass on Wednesday. Monsignor Thomas Shannon PP, the Chief Celebrant was assisted by Fr John Garvey PP, Carnacon; Fr Peter Waldon PP, Keelogues; Dr Tom Mullaghy SMA, Claregalway; Fr Martin Costello SMA; Fr Peter Walsh, Ballinrobe and Fr Michael Gormally CC, Ballinrobe. Members of the Ballinrobe Golf Club and the Lakeside Sport and Fitness Club formed a guard of honour on both days. Des is mourned by his wife Geraldine, sons Paddy, David, Des, Kevin and Brian; daughters Joanne and Deirdre; sisters Marian McGrath and Phil O'Sullivan; daughters in law, sons in law, grandchildren, extended family and friends. Courtesy of Western People 8 November 2005 Tweet

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