Tributes to former Westport Mayor on his passing
Tributes are being paid to the former Mayor of Westport, Martin Keane, whose death has taken place.
Martin served as an independent/community member of the local Town Council for 21 years and was elected cathaoirleach in 2008.
He retired from public life in 2014 following the government decision to scrap town councils.
In a post on his Facebook page, Fr. Charlie McDonnell, Adm., Westport, stated: "The sudden yet peaceful passing of Martin Keane has left the community without a great community man.
"There will be many tributes paid to him in the coming days. All well deserved. Many laughs many stories.
"You might hear him before you’d see him but it was always a word of welcome and a word of encouragement.
"Rest well Martin. Solas bhFlaitheas."
Mayo Community Games has expressed deepest sympathy to Martin's family and the many friends he made over the years.
In a tribute the organisation stated: "Martin was a stalwart of Community Games in Westport and was a well known figure in the Mayo Community Games tracksuit at National Finals, particularly through the years in Mosney.
"He worked hard for the opening parades and the children were thrilled any year they won the 2FM trophy for best county. This was always thanks to Martin's hard work.
"Martin was a true community man who gave so much to so many.
"May he rest in peace."
Local Councillor Brendan Mulroy said he was deeply saddened to learn of Martin's passing.
"I have said it many times that he was an absolute hero for all the tremendous community work he did over the years.
"Martin Keane played a huge part in most people's lives in our community.
The community is left heartbroken. Martin gave his life to supporting the youth and most vulnerable in our community.
"He had his own unique way and he was loved by everyone you came in contact with.
"I will miss the advice and support he gave me throughout the years. He pointed a lot of young people in the right direction when a gentle nudge was needed, myself included.
"He was without doubt one of the finest people to walk the streets of Westport. My deepest sympathy to Marie and her family."
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
The funeral arrangements for Martin Keane, Carrowbeg Estate, and formerly Liscarney, Westport, are as follows.
Community Funeral will take place on Sunday evening and Monday next.
Martin will repose at Navin's Funeral Home on Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. with removal to St. Mary's Church, Westport.
Funeral Mass on Monday at 12.30 p.m. followed by burial in Drummin Cemetery.
Mass will be live streamed on www.churchtv.ie/westport.
Predeceased by his mother Annie and brother-in-law John (Geraghty), Westport, Martin will be sadly missed by his heartbroken sister Marie, nieces Eileen and Deirdre, nephews John, Paul and Michéal, neighbours and his many friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.
Video: Martin Keane's interview with Dr. Oliver Whyte, Westport, a number of years ago.