Warm tributes on death of beloved former Mayo council employee

A MINUTE'S silence was held today as a mark of respect for beloved former council employee Paddy Keane.

Paddy, from Kilmeena, who died in his 90th year, was former town foreman in Westport. He will be laid to rest this Tuesday.

At a municipal district meeting in Westport, cathaoirleach Councillor Peter Flynn paid tribute to Paddy for the service he gave Westport as town council foreman, describing him as 'an absolute gentleman'.

In his work, if you asked him for something you never had to ask a second time, he said.

Paddy was held in high regard among the council staff as well as councillors and he will be sorely missed in the local community.

Councillor Flynn extended sympathy to the Keane family on their loss, with Councillor Brendan Mulroy proposing a minute's silence in remembrance.

Paddy had made a remarkable contribution, said Councillor Mulroy.

Online tributes paid to Paddy since his passing have similarly recalled a man who gave dedicated service and was a true gentleman.

He was a great community, always with a smile and a chat, and had a great knowledge of local history.

Paddy, from Ardkeen, Kilmeena, died peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was predeceased by his parents Patrick and Mamie Keane, brother Sean and grandaughter Hannah.

Paddy will be sadly missed by his loving wife Jennifer, daughter Mary (Ayle), sons Sean (Martina), Packie (Mary), Dominic (Tricia) and Noel (Helen), his adored grandchildren David, Danny, Thomas, Patrick, Aaron, Laura, Rachel, Carolyn, Mollie, DJ, Sean and Ellie-Mai, extended family, neighbours and many friends.

Reposing is in Navin's Funeral Home, Westport, this evening (Monday) from 5 to 7 p.m.

Funeral will be arriving to St. Brendan's Church, Kilmeena, at 12 noon on Tuesday for Requiem Mass at 12.30 p.m., with burial afterwards in Myna Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.