Castlebar mourns passing of a true gentleman
THE death has taken place of Pat Ludden, St. Bridget's Crescent, Castlebar.
Aged 80, he was one of the town's best known and most respected personalities.
A native of Station Road, he was a member of the maintenance staff of Mayo University Hospital for many years and was highly regarded for his dedication and professionalism.
Pat, an unassuming and courteous personality, had been a member of the printing staff at The Connaught Telegraph before taking up employment with the Western Health Board.
The deceased was closely associated with Castlebar Celtic FC and, in recent years, was a welcoming face on the admission gate of Celtic Park ahead of big games.
Paying tribute to him, Greg Whyte, club chairman, said Pat was a gentleman first and foremost and helped out the club in what ever way he could.
“We were very sad to learn this morning of his passing. You could always depend on him. We will miss him hugely around Celtic Park. He was a club legend in so many ways.'
His passion for sport in general was very broad and he retained a keen interest on Mayo GAA affairs as well as the exploits of Castlebar Mitchels.
He was also a lifelong supporter of Arsenal FC and often draped his house in the club's red and white colours when the London club was involved in a major clash.
Most of all, Pat was an outstanding family man, an exemplary husband, father, brother and grandfather.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.
Deepest sympathy is extended to his wife Ann, son Pat, daughter Louise, brothers Denis and Bernie (Westport), sister Margaret Fitzgibbons (Islandeady), son-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, relatives and friends.
His remains will be reposing in the residence of his son and daugher-in-law, Pat and Aoife, 1 Brooklands, Castlebar, from 6 to 8 p.m. tomorrow evening (Tuesday) with removal afterwards to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar.
Burial takes place in the New Cemetery on Wedneday following Requiem Mass at 11 a.m. for the repose of his soul.