The late Seamus Ryan, Ashbury An air of complete shock engulfed Roscrea when word began to filter through of the sudden and untimely death of Seamus Ryan, Ashbury, Roscrea. An extremely popular man, Seamus was a character who carried with him an aura of almost invincibility. No challenge was too great for Seamus. He grasped adversity with relish and his boundless energy and enthusiasm meant that more often than not he triumphed over any obstacle put in his path. His contribution to Roscrea Bacon Factory and Roscrea Meat Factory where he spent most of his working life is legendary. In recent years however Seamus found himself working in Looby Tiles Benamore in a job befitting his tremendous skill and wonderful craftsman abilities. Carpenter, Plumber, Builder, Mechanic, Seamus had unique gifts. Which he used more often than not to benefit others rather than himself. The tremendous generosity and selflessness of a man who could almost turn a high Nelly into a Ferrari! made Seamus one of the communities greatest unsung heroes. Neighbours and Friends would find themselves breathless describing just some of the help afforded to them by Seamus over the years. No job was to big or to small for Seamus. Whether it was helping someone bring home a plot of turf, tile a roof or simply stopping for a friendly chat with an elderly neighbour, Seamus always managed to find the time. Seamus was also blessed with green fingers. The gardens he kept in Ashbury were always of award winning standard and indeed his efforts were rewarded with numerous prizes over the years. Walking his dogs through the fields was a pleasant pastime but no doubt that when not surrounded by family Seamus was happiest when spending time in the serenity and tranquillity of the local bogs. His love of the bog and turf is testament to his love of hard work and the outdoors. Very few people in Ireland are alive today with the ability Seamus had to proficiently read the quality of a bog and the pedigree of its turf. His meticulous eye for detail and expert judgement had helped ensure on many occasions that anyone seeking advise from Seamus as to where to purchase their turf in June each year usually ended up with one of the most comfortable sitting rooms in the town come the cold, damp and dreary days of January. Outside of work and family Seamus did manage to find some time for recreational activities. He enjoyed most sports including soccer and following Southampton Football Club, but his greatest passion was hurling. By all accounts Seamus had outstanding ability and a wonderful presence on the field. It was no surprise that in 1966 he won An All-Ireland Vocational Schools Medal a fitting reward for such a skillful and talented player. Seamus also gave terrific service to local Gaelic Football Club Inane Rovers and to those who saw play on a regular basis it was no surprise when he became a County Minor Footballer. Perhaps one of the greatest legacies that Seamus will leave behind is the the great coaching and advise he offered many of his younger neighbours and friends who benefited enormously over the years from his encouragement and words of wisdom. Seamus was a man who touched the hearts and minds of many, many people. He leaves behind him a wonderful wife, a beautiful young family and some fantastic memories. Our deepest sympathy to his wife Maura, his daughters Marie, Muriel and Helen, his step brothers Liam and Neddy, his step sister Peg, his brother-in-law Michael, sister-in-law Anna, son-in-law Damien, grandchildren, relatives and many, many friends. Seamus's funeral mass took place in St. Cronan's Church and burial was immediately afterwards in the peaceful surrounds of the adjoining cemetery. May he rest in peace. Courtesy of the Tipperary Star 8th October 2005 Tweet

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