Warm tributes paid following death of former Mayo garda

STRONG, kind, gentle and wise - some of the words being used to describe the late Robert (Bob) McCallion, Swinford, who has died.

A former garda, he gave sterling service to his community as a member of An Garda Síochána, where he was held in great respect and deep affection.

The Donegal native, who hailed from Magherarnett, Carndonagh, passed on that trait of service, with his two sons, the late John and Robert, following in their father's footsteps by joining An Garda Síochána. The untimely passing of both John and Robert was borne with great dignity by Bob and his wife Nancy and family.

Whether it was during his service as a garda or as member of the local community, Bob made a positive impression on everyone. He was always friendly, approachable, kind, with good advice, while closer to home he was a wonderful family man who will be deeply missed.

Predeceased by his sons John and Robert and his parents John William and Nora, he will be loved and missed by wife Nancy, daughters Noreen and Deirdre, son-in-law Marty, daughter-in-law Colette, grandchildren, Alice, Aidan, Méabh, Sarah, Grace and Robert, brothers Daniel (Dublin), Paddy (Donegal) and John (Sligo), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, family circle, neighbours, and his large circle of friends and former garda colleagues, to whom sympathy is extended on their great loss.

Reposing is at his home on Sunday from 2 until 7 p.m. and Monday from 2 until 6 p.m., with removal to the Church of Our Lady Help of Christians, Swinford, arriving at 7 p.m.

Bob's funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday at 12 noon prior to burial in Kilconduff Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.