Funeral of Dr. Martin Finnerty told he left an indelible mark on south Mayo community

First responders who “worked tirelessly” to save the life of Ballinrobe based GP Dr. Martin Finnerty after he was the victim of a road traffic accident have been warmly thanked by his widow.

At his Requiem Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Ballinrobe, today, Paula Finnerty specially mentioned the paramedics, firemen, members of An Garda Siochana who attended to her husband after he was struck by a vehicle.

“They treated us with utmost respect and dignity and kindness and we will never forget that," she said.

In an eulogy, Mrs. Finnerty described the Ballinrobe community as “wonderful” for the manner in which it had rallied around her family with food, flowers and messages of support.

She thanked her “three musketeers” – her children Peter, Síoda and Sibéal.

“Since this happened, through their own grief, their priority has been me continually asking ‘Mam, are you okay?'"

In a separate eulogy, Peter Finnerty described his dad as very knowledgable man who relished participating in quiz sessions.

“He was a great family man," Peter continued. “He would do anything for us."

Peter went on to say his dad was conscientious and caring in his career as a family doctor, never taking a sick day himself.

“I am just so incredibly proud he was our dad. He left an indelible mark on our lives and the lives of so many others in this town and further afield.

Since 1988, Dr. Finnerty, a native of Athenry, Co. Galway, ran a GP practice at Cornmarket in Ballinrobe.

He died on Thursday evening last after being struck by a vehicle while walking near Church Lane.

Fr. Denis Carney was chief celebrant at today’s ceremony.

Symbols of the late doctor’s life brought to the altar included his trademark hat, his stethoscope and a history book to reflect his deep interest in history, both national and international.

Burial took place in the New Cemetery, Ballinrobe, with large numbers attending.