Passing of beloved Mayo vet deeply mourned

GREAT sadness hangs over east Mayo and further afield at the death of veterinary surgeon Brendan Mullaney.

The Kiltimagh native, who operated a very successful veterinary practice from beside the family home in Swinford, died following a short illness.

A true gentleman, Brendan was a reassuring figure coming in the farm gate to attend sick animals for the many farmers in the large area that he covered as a vet, or at his clinic for small animals. It didn't matter what hour of the night it was, if a farmer was in trouble, Brendan was there to help.

Brendan was a gentle giant of a man who wore a beaming smile and always seemed to be in good humour. He could tell a great story and he listened to people.

He was a much beloved husband and dad, proud of his five children and their achievements, and supporting them along with wife Regina as they made their way through life.

In the wider community there is great sadness at Brendan's death, among people whose livestock and family pets benefitted from his natural gifts as a vet and those who knew and loved Brendan as a friend, neighbour, or someone to chat to going about daily life.

Many tributes are being paid to him on rip.ie, including one who stated: “Both the world of people and the world of animals has experienced a huge loss today.

“He was one of the most obliging people you could meet. Never a bad word and always a smile and instinctive with animals.”

“Brendan was a gentleman and the best in his field... nothing was ever too much trouble,” another recalled.

Another paid tribute: “Brendan was such a kind gentleman and brilliant vet. His passion for caring for animals was outstanding.”

Brendan will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by his family, wife Regina (Carley), children Rachel, Sarah, Katie, Shane and David, his parents Frank and Celia Mullaney (Kiltimagh), brothers Bernard, John and Kevin, sisters Marian and Hilary, the Carley family, sisters-in-law Eithne, Svetlana and Hilary's partner Scott, nieces, nephews, aunts, extended family circle, neighbours and many friends, to whom sympathy is extended on their great loss.

Reposing is in Campbell's Funeral Home, Swinford, on Friday from 3 to 7 p.m.

Brendan's funeral Mass will take place in Our Lady Help of Christians Church, Swinford, at 2.30 p.m. on Saturday prior to burial in Kilconduff Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.