Mayo islanders pay tribute to late Jörg 'George' Zengel

MANY warm tributes have been paid following the death of Clare Island resident Jörg 'George' Zengel.

A musician who later found his vocation and became a cleric, he had visited the island over the years and came to live there after retiring, with the community taking him into their hearts.

Formerly of Lübeck, and Helligenhafen, Germany, he will be remembered with love by his brother Volker, his dearly loved nephews Hauke and Thies, sister-in-law Willeke, extended family, a large circle of friends and the community of Clare Island.

A tribute from the community on the Clare Island Facebook page recalled George with great fondness:

'Clare Island bids farewell to one of our most beloved residents, the one and only Jörg 'George' Zengel.

'A talented musician from his early years in Germany, George played jazz and blues in his youth, both touring and recording.

'He found his vocation and trained to be a priest in the Lutheran church, eventually rising to be bishop, while always maintaining and sharing his great gift of music.

'He began to spend holidays on Clare Island many decades ago, and was so taken with the place and its people that he bought a cottage in the village of Kille.

'When he retired from the church, George relocated full time to Clare Island, where he became an active and cherished member of the community.

'He taught piano to island children, and played in many local musical groups, including the wonderful Saints and Sinners, who became a feature of island church and community life.

'George enjoyed a pint of Guinness and was always fascinating, gregarious company. He famously used to declare: “My mother says I can have one more pint of Guinness”!

'He made a rich and colourful contribution to the tapestry of our island community.

'George, you were one of a kind, we were blessed to have you among us, and we'll never forget you.

'Rest in peace, Bishop of Blues.'

George's funeral made its way from Roonagh Pier to Clare Island yesterday (Sunday) evening, to the Church of the Sacred Heart. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated today (Monday) at 12 noon followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.