DENIS O’CONNOR RIP: Even though he had been ailing since last December, nonetheless, it came as a shock to most people who knew him when news filtered through that Denis O’Connor had passed away peacefully at Kerry University Hospital on this St. Partick’s Day morning,
For many years he was involved in so many activities within the Club. Probably his greatest achievement was his very first involvement in 1986 with the establishment of the U13 Lee Strand Tournament which has grown from strength to strength down the years under his stewardship, and continues to be such a success to this very day. Denny loved nothing more than meeting all his old friends from the various participating Clubs, with Na Piarsaigh Club (Cork City) having a special affection for him as they are the only non Kerry Club who have been there every year since 1986.
He was also involved in the Field Committee, the Bar, the Cards (he was a great card player himself – 45), the Lotto, since its formation in January 1993, and the Bingo since its inception in November 2005, until its demise a few weeks ago.
He carried out his work with the least of fuss. He was always on call, early in the morning or late at night. He lined the pitches, cut the grass, opened the Clubrooms, closed them at night and made sure the lights were off. He paid the referees, met people who came to view the Club or who had appointments with Club Officials. He organized the Church Gate Collection at St. John’s for many years.
Just a few weeks ago (4th Feb) he and his wife, Nora celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
Literally, Denny will be irreplaceable both as a Club worker and as a friend and neighbor to all who knew him and, of course, to his loving family.
We extend sincere sympathy to his wife Nora, sons Paul and Denis, his sister Maura and her husband, Donal, his grandchildren and all his extended family and friends.
