O'Neill, Art
September 26, 2006
The late Art O'Neill
The death took place on Friday, September 15, 2006 of Art O'Neill, Creagh Road, Ballinrobe. Art, who was born in Bowgate Street, Ballinrobe, in 1939, and had been unwell for some time, was centrally involved in the business life of the area for many years.
After spending a spell in England, he returned home and worked with the Ballinrobe Bread Company. O'Hara of Foxford and Western Prode. His purchase of a licensed premises in the town in 1976 marked a new phase in his life, and the tavern, commanding a prime setting at the top of Bridge Street, became a very popular rendezvous for a wide ranging clientele. Art's kindly presence and sympatric ear ensured that all shapes of opinion were given a ready platform.
Art was richly endowed with sporting talent and winning the Flanaghan Cup and Connacht Colleges Senior B championship medals, with Ballinrobe CBS, was the prelude to doning the Mayo jersey in the minor and senior grades. He also distinguished himself at soccer and rugby and an injury prevented him from realising his full potential. Ballinrobe GAA club, mindful of his contribution, presented him with the Hall of Fame Award in July 2006.
Racing was another of Art's hobbies and he enjoyed discussing its myriad twists and turns. His illness did not deter him from maintaining a keen interest in Ballinrobe's life up to the very end, and he was tended to with devout care by his wife Mary, and family.
His remains were removed from his residence to St Mary's Church, Ballinrobe, and the burial took place after concelebrated Requiem Mass on Monday, September 18, 2006. Fr Oliver McNamara, PP, Annaghdown, a friend of Art's, the chief celebrant, was assisted by Fr Michael Gormally, CC, Ballinrobe, Fr Peter Walsh, Ballinrobe and Monsignor Thomas Shannon, PP.
Large and representative attendances on both days reflected the high standard in which Art was held, and members of Ballinrobe GAA Club and the local Fire Brigade, formed a guard of honour.
Art is mourned by his wife Mary, son Shane, Owen, Roe, Art, Rory and Hugh, daughters Joni Walsh, Keelin O'Toole and Nicola Moranhan, daughters in law, sons in law, brother Hugh, sisters Joan Heneghan, Delma Loughrey, and Gerty McKeena, nephews, nieces, and grandchildren Michael, Gillian, Jack, Caoimhe, Blathnoid and Aoife.
Courtesy of the Western People
26 September 2006
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