Passing of former chairman of Castlebar Urban Council

The death of Martin Hopkins, Newport Road, Castlebar, is widely mourned in the community.

He died peacefully after a short illness in the tender, loving care of the staff of the Mayo University Hospital and Mayo Hospice, Castlebar.

Formerly of the ESB and the Register of Electrical Contractors of Ireland, he served as a member of the old Castlebar Urban Council for many years, including a term as chairman.

Reunited with his infant daughter Martina and his parents, brothers and sisters in their heavenly home, Martin is deeply regretted by his loving wife Sally, sons Páraic and Seán and daughter Mary (Galvin), daughters-in-law Moira and Tanya, son-in-law Michael, grandchildren Matthew, Jonathan, Mark, Conor, Niamh and Patrick, his sister Nora (Southend on Sea), sister-in-law Margaret (Ballyhaunis), and his many nieces and nephews, to whom sympathy is tendered.

Many lovely tribute have been paid to him on the condolences page of the death notices website, RIP.ie.

Fr. Brendan Hoban, Columbans, Navan, and formerly of Castlebar, stated: "My sincere sympathy to the Hopkins family on this very sad time with the death of Martin, RIP.

"He was a great and beautiful man for all those who were privileged to meet him."

Fr. Joe O'Brien, Tuam Archdiocese, stated: "He was such a friendly, welcoming person."

Another tribute described Martin as 'a lovely person and a true gentleman, always helpful with a kind smile, and who will be greatly missed around Castlebar'.

Neighbours and friends joined in paying their own tributes to the deceased.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

His remains will be reposing at the Coady Funeral Home on this evening (Sunday) from 5.30 until 7 p.m.

Removal from Coady's Funeral Home on Monday at 11.30 a.m. to the Church of The Holy Rosary for Requiem Mass at 12 noon.

Burial takes place afterwards in the New Cemetery, Castlebar.