Henry, Austin
March 28, 2006
The late Austin Henry
The death occurred of Mr Austin Henry, Tooreen at the advanced age of 90 years.
He was known as Austin the Blacksmith, having worked in this trade in the early part of his life. He served his apprenticeship with the Quinn's Blacksmiths, Ballinlough in the late 30s and served the farmers with his expertise with iron for many years.
Later he worked with his son Tony in establishing a very successful garden and nursery. He had many great interests during his long life which included hurling, traditional music and card playing, with hurling most prominent. He rarely missed a game that Tooreen played in over the 46 years and was proud of the contribution his sons made to the game at club level with their skill and artistry, which was above average.
His eldest son Michael was founder of the club in 1957, while Tony and Joe were selected on the Connacht hurling team on a number of times, with Joe receiving an All-Star award while younger brother Vincent was also a star player.
His funeral Mass in Tooreen Church was simple but very moving as his son Michael sang the lovely hymn, 'How can I keep singing' as the priests came to the altar. Later he sang again at the offertory while Vincent played the tin whistle. It was a fitting send off for a man who had that patriarchal quality. Tall in stature, he always brought a special presence to all functions and events he so often attended. He was a highly respected member of the community and will be sadly missed not only by his family but everyone one who had the pleasure of knowing him.
The priests who concelebrated the Mass were Rev Fr. Paddy Sheridan, Tooreen, Rev Fr. Joe Fitzgerald, Castlerea, Rev Fr. Tom Kilkenny, Gorthaganny. He is survived by his wife, Annie, formerly Finn, Gorthaganny; sons Michael, Jimmy, Tony, Joe, Vincent; daughters Mary, Breege; Lillian and Dolores. The funeral was from Donnellan's Funeral Home to Tooreen Church and burial took place after Mass.
Courtesy of the Roscommon Herald
28 March 2006
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