The late Harry Loughnane The death occurred recently of Harry Loughnane, Kennedy Park, Roscrea which caused widespread regret not just in Roscrea but right across the counties of Tipperary, Laois and Offaly. A member of a hurling dynasty, Harry showed from a very early age the wonderful skill he had in the great game of hurling. A brilliant minor, he developed into a stylish senior player and played in many professions for his club. Harry emigrated to England for a number of years and missed out on Roscrea's successes in both 1963 and 1967. However when Roscrea made the great breakthrough in 1968 Harry was there to share in the honour of the occasion and it was his great goal against Thurles Sarsfields in the 1968 County Final as the ballad said "May The Bonfires Blaze Of Sweet Roscrea". This was the beginning of a great era in Roscrea Senior Hurling, winning three county championships in a row and later going on to win three more as well, and an All-Ireland Club Championship. After retiring from Senior Hurling, Harry played Junior, playing in goal. Roscrea had some great hurling stalwarts over the years but none as colourful and as dedicated as Harry Loughnane. It was fitting that at his funeral Roscrea Hurling Club provided a guard of honour. The removal took place from his residence to St. Cronan's Church. He was laid to rest immediately afterwards in the surrounding cemetery. Roscrea has lost one of its greatest hurling sons. To his wife Mary, sons Terrance, Kevin, Richard, Mark, Deane, daughter Anne; brothers John, Martin, Francis, Richard, Noel; sisters Margaret and Girlie, extended family and friends, our deepest sympathy is extended. Courtesy of the Tipperary Star June 2004 Tweet

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