The Flanagan family were left heartbroken recently at the sudden death of Ger Flanagan, who was aged just 55. Ger is survived by his wife Elizabeth 'Dooley' to whom he was married for 32 years and their four children Ger, Joeline, Ian and Shane as well as his children-in-law who were very fond of Ger. He had four grandchildren, Jordan, Casey, Troy and Finn, as well as his brother and sisters. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather who loved having his family nearby and was never happier than when joining his wife Dooley and their children for a sociable pint in Hollands. He got on very well with his grandchildren, even getting to grips with Thomas the Tank Engine with two-year-old Finn. A resident of Ballywltrim Heights, Dooley's birthplace Rathnew also had a very special place in Ger's heart and he was a staunch supporter of the village's GAA team. He also followed Liverpool FC, as did his children who often enjoyed getting together to watch the matches with their dad. One of Ger's most prized possessions was the Wicklow jersey he got from Tommy Gill after Wicklow won the Tommy Murphy Cup. He was also a breeder of English bull terriers for 30 years and loved attending the dog shows. He often travelled to Spain with his family. Just last year 40 of them went on a trip to celebrate Dooley's 50th brithday. She and Ger went to Spain at least four times a year where they made great friends with a family that own the Glasgow Bar in Santa Ponza. They always welcomed Ger, Dooley and the kids in to their family. When Ian got married to Cathy in May, it was a very proud day for Ger. He was thrilled to have the entire family together and delighted to welcome his new daughter-in-law in to the fold, having already become a second father to her over the years. The newlyweds said that while they are devastated at their loss, they are glad that Ger got the chance to have such a wonderful day. One of his more recent hobbies was the cultivation of bonsai trees, which his kids are now trying to look after for him. The pastime required a lot of patience, which was a quality Ger had in abundance. He was given his final farewell recently at St. Fergal's Church before being laid to rest at Springfield Cemetery. His family said that they are grateful to all the relations, friends and neighbours who have shown them so much support in their sadness. Wicklow People, July 29th 2009 Tweet

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