The late Podge Galvin Ballymitty is poorer place following the death of Podge Galvin. Podge (Padraig) passed away in tragic circumstances at his home in Hilltown, Ballymitty on Wednesday, May 16th 2007. The 48-year-old was a popular and well-known not just in his local community, but much further afield through his work in the construction industry and his sporting exploits. The youngest son of Bridie 'Gran' Galvin, whose home place is beside his, and the late Johnny Galvin, Podge had two sisters, Mary 'Moll' and Peggy and one brother Sean 'Jack'. Educated at Ballymitty National School and Bridgetown Vocational School, Podge went on to forge a successful career for himself as a builder. He initially learnt his craft as a carpenter with neighbours and builders, Ferguson Ltd. Roofing and tiling were the area he specialised in and he later started up his own company. He did plenty of roofing work for other contractors, while he also undertook his own ambitious housing projects, which eh complete to the highest standards. The Ballymitty builder was a respected figure in construction circles throughout County Wexford. A keen sportsman, Podge particularly loved handball. Though he played hurling and football with Bannow-Ballymitty in his youth it was as a handball player that he excelled. His friends and colleagues from the handball courts formed a Guard of Honour for Podge at his funeral mass. He also loved to go rallying and was a huge fan of motorsports in general for the last 25 years, attending events all around the country. This was another interest he passed on to his family. Podge and Catherine and their two boys, travelled to the many rallies together, which were always memorable occasions for the Galvins. Podge played the accordion in his younger years and loved transitional music, passing his appreciation of Irish music onto his sons, Leon (18) and Joseph (13). Leon played a moving musical tribute on the banjo to his father at his graveside in Ballymitty, of which Podge would no doubt have been extremely proud. He was a devoted husband and father who loved to spend time with his nearest and dearest. An easygoing fella, Podge was a very well-liked figure locally. He always had a kind word and a smile for everyone he met. He was very proud of his own parish and was always on hand to help out when needed, while he was a familiar face at field days and other local fundraising initiatives. The high regard in which Podge was held was reflected by the huge numbers of mourners that attended his funeral at St Peter's Church in Ballymitty, celebrated by Fr Gerry O'Leary, CC on Saturday, May 19th 2007. He was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Podge will be sadly missed by his loving wife Catherine, his sons Leon and Joseph, his mother Bridget, his sisters, Mary (Moll) and Peggy, and one brother Sean (Jack), Catherine parents Jim and Molly, Tully canna, his nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace. Courtesy of the Wexford People 30 May 2007 Tweet

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