Obituaries

Obituary Fr. Patrick Daly Former Cf in The Curragh –  15/03/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sorrow we inform IUNVA members of the death of Rev Fr. Patrick Daly Braganza, Carlow, retired Parish Priest and former DF Chaplain and late of The Curragh and Naas, Co Kildare. He died on 15 Mar 2023 in the wonderful care of the staff of Craddock House Nursing Home, Naas.  He was predeceased by his parents James and Elizabeth, brothers Shay and Col Kevin Daly a former D Sigs Corps, and sister in law Mary.  Deeply missed by his sister-in-law, Anne, nieces and nephews, his cousins Elma and Annaand extended family, neighbours, Bishop Denis Nulty and the priests of the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin  and former parishioners of Cooleragh and Staplestown, Co Kildare and Bennekerry, Co Carlow.

His body has been donated to Medical Research at UCD.

Fr. Daly served overseas as Chaplain 48 Inf Bn from Nov 1980 to Apr 1981.

Requiem Mass will be celebrated in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow, at 1300 hours on Saturday 18 Mar.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Photo:  Fr Daly presenting the Chaplains Cup to Cpl Jim Cooper 30 Inf Bn in Jul 1980.

 

Obituary, V Rev Canon Michael Murphy –  11/03/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sorrow we inform IUNVA members of the death on 11 Mar 2023 of Very Reverend Canon Michel Murphy, late of Blackpool and Ballyphehane, Cork who served as chaplain in Collins Bk Cork for seventeen years and he served overseas with units in Lebanon, Kosovo, Somalia and in Honduras. He was one of seven priests who were ordained on the 13 Jun 1968 at the Cathedral of SS Mary and Anne in Cork. He served in the diocese of Southwark in the UK, Gurranabraher from 1969, Trujillo (Peru) from 1975 to 1981, Carrigaline, he retired as parish priest in the Church of the Assumption in Ballyphehane last Sep and he was assistant priest at Ballinlough Parish at the time of his death.


Canon Murphy was a son of the late Jim and Jo and brother of Niall and the late Fr. Joseph. Sadly missed by his loving family, sister-in-law Maura, nieces Catherine, Christine and Lynda, nephews James and Michael, nephews-in-law Rob and Peter, grandnieces Isabel and Chloe and grandnephews Conor and Liam, Bishop Fintan Gavin, Bishop John Buckley, his fellow Clergy and the Parishioners of Ballyphehane and his former Parishes, relatives and friends especially Sr Monica and Colette.


Canon Michael will be reposing at Sullivans Funeral Home, Turners Cross on Tuesday 14 Mar from 1600 until 1800 hours. Celebration of Vespers will take place at the Church of the Assumption, Ballyphehane on Tuesday 1930. Requiem Mass on Wednesday at 1430 which may be viewed on www.churchmedia.tv/ballyphehane, funeral afterwards at St. Joseph’ afterwards at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Tory Top Road.
Donations, in lieu of flowers, to Trócaire.

Canon Murphy, (number 3 from the left standing) as Chaplain 2 Tpt Coy KFOR in Feb 2000 with Michael Thompson.


Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.

 

Obituary, Ex CQMS Michael Weston –  08/03/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With regret we inform our members of the death of Michael Weston, Mayfield, Cork, a retired CQMS at Collins Bks Cork on 8 Mar 2023 at Cork University Hospital.

Beloved husband of Mary, adored father of Irene and son-in-law Pat, adored Granda to Nicole, Chloe and Abby, brother of Sean, Nell, Breda, Pat and the late Kitty. Sadly missed by his heartbroken wife Mary, daughter Irene, grandchildren, son-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and his large circle of friends.

As a Cpl he served with 11 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Aug 1968 to Mar 1969.

His Requiem Mass was held in St. Michael’s Garrison Church, Collins Bks on Sat 11 Mar followed by cremation at The Island Crematorium, Rocky Island, Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

 

Obituary , former Sgt Christy (Pinto) Moore  05/03/2023

From PRO IUNVA

 

With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death at Tallaght Hospital on Sunday 5 Mar 2023 of Christy (Pinto) Moore Mylerstown, Robertstown, Kildare / Newbridge, Co Kildare / Mullingar, Co Westmeath, he was a retired  Sgt 1 Armd Car Sqn, Plunkett Bks Curragh Camp.

Deeply regretted by his loving wife Mona, children Linda, Ian and Debbie, sons-in-law Eoin and Dave, daughter-in-law Andrea, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, extended family and friends.

Reposing at Oliver Reilly’s Funeral Home, Prosperous on Wednesday from 1600 to 2000 hours with prayers at 1900. Removal on Thursday at 1030 to arrive at The Church of the Most Holy Trinity , Allen for 1100 hours  funeral mass, followed by cremation in Glasnevin Crematorium.

His two brothers Bobby and James (Jas M) had served as senior NCOs in the Curragh Command HQ and in Mil Col. 

He served as a Tpr with Armd Car Gp, 9 Inf Gp UNFICYP in 1967 – 68, as a Cpl with HQ Coy,  22 Inf Gp UNFICYP  in 1972 and in Cyprus and the Sinai with 25 Inf Gp in 1973 – 74.

I measc na naomh go raibh sé.

Photo Credit: the late Comdt Art Magennis private collection.

Obituary , Ex Sgt Michael Dowler –  23/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sorrow we inform members of the death on 23 Feb 2023 of Michael Dowler, Tormey Villas, Athlone, Co Westmeath and Legan, Co Longford a retired Sgt, 6 Inf Bn, Custume Bks Athlone.

Sadly missed by his loving wife Alice, his sons John and Michael, his daughters Lynda (Dolan), Audrey (Dowler) & Maria (Heffernan), brothers, sisters, in-laws, his adoring grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives and many friends.

Reposing at Flynn’s Funeral Home, The Strand on Sunday evening from 1600 to 800 hours.

Requiem Mass on Monday in Our Lady Queen of Peace, Coosan Church at 1030 with cremation afterwards in Lakelands Crematorium, Cavan.

Michael was a veteran of peace support operations in the Congo, in Cyprus and in Lebanon.  He served as a Cpl with the first unit to serve in the Congo, 32 Inf Bn from Jul 1960 to Jan 1961,  with 19 Inf Gp in Cyprus from Sep 1970 to Apr 1971 and with 47 Inf Bn in Lebanon from May to Nov 1980.

I measc na naomh go raibh sé.

 

Obituary , Christopher McManus – Post 9 IUNVA – 20/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform members of the death on 20 Feb 2023 of a Post 9 member, Christopher (Christy) McManus, Retreat Nursing Home, Athlone, Co Westmeath, peacefully, in the wonderful care of Retreat Nursing Home, surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents, brothers and sisters and his grandson Shane. Sadly missed by his wife Mary, his sons Dermot, Darren and Damien, his daughters Pamela, Michelle and Nicola, sons-in-law, daughters in law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brother Brendan and his wife Marie, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Reposing at his son Darren’s residence, Kilkenny West (N37 DN25) on Tuesday from 1630 to 1930 hours.  Removal on Wednesday morning to Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Coosan arriving for Funeral Mass at 1100 hours. Burial afterwards in St Peters and Pauls Church Cemetery, Horseleap.

Christy was a veteran peacekeeper who served in the Congo with C Coy (Jul 1960 – Jan 1961), and with C Coy 37 Inf Bn (May – Nov 1962).  He served in Cyprus with A Pl, HQ Coy 11 Inf Gp (Aug 1968 – Mar 1969).  His parent unit was 4 Fd Engr Coy, Custume Bks Athlone.

 I measc na naomh go raibh sé.

Obituary A/BSM Declan O’Connell – 12/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform members of the death in a parachuting accident at the Juliana Aerodrome near the city of Seville in Spain on Sunday 12 Feb ’23 of Acting BSM Declan (Doc) O’Connell (54), Cdt Sch, Mil Col DFTC. 

He enlisted in the DF in 1990, he was an experienced parachutist and he was a member of the Black Knights, the DF parachute display team.  He was attending a civilian run course of instruction to qualify as a free fall instructor when he lost his life.  He completed a Military Static Line course in 2004 and topped this up with a course in Belgium in 2008; he completed a Jumpmasters Course in 2018.

He completed five tours of duty with UNIFIL, he served in the Balkans with SFOR, KFOR and with EUFOR BiH in Bosnia, he served with the EU Trg Mission in Mali.

He was a fine sportsman; he played football with Sarsfield’s GAA Club and soccer with Newbridge Town FC.

Reposing at his residence in Newbridge from 1400 to 2000 hours on Monday 20 Feb with rosary at 1900.  Removal on Tuesday morning to arrive for 1100 hours Funeral Mass in St Brigid’s Garrison Church The Curragh.  Mass can be viewed at  https://m.facebook.com/TheCurraghChurch/

Funeral afterwards to St Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.  House  private at all other times.

IUNVA extends our deepest sympathy to his partner Audrey, daughter Niamh, his parents Iggy and Mary, his sister Denise, his extended family, his serving and retired comrades from the DF, his friends and neighbours.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Obituary Post 9 Member Noel Stanley – 17/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death on 17 Feb 2023,  Post 9 IUNVA member, Sgt Noel Stanley (Retd), O’Molloy St Tullamore, Co Offaly and late of 6 Inf Bn.  He was a veteran of peace support operations in the Congo, in Cyprus and in Lebanon.  As a young Pte he deployed with 32 Inf Bn, the first unit to serve in the Congo from Jul to Dec 1960.  His second tour of duty was with 1 Pl, A Coy, 35 Inf Bn when he fought at Jadotville as a Bren-gunner in Sep 1961 and in Elisabethville in Dec 1961.  As a Cpl he served in Cyprus with A Coy, 3 Inf Gp from Jul 1964 to Jan 1965, E Comd supplied most of the Coy and W Comd and CTC supplemented the Coy with a Pl.  His second tour with UNFICYP was with C Coy 10 Inf Gp from Mar to Sep 1968.  He served as a Sgt in 1978 as the 84mm A/Tk Sec Comd, Wpns Pl, C Coy 43 Inf Bn – this was the first DF unit to serve with UNIFIL.

He was predeceased by his loving wife Margaret.  Deeply regretted by his sons Raymond, Padraig and Noel, his daughters Regina, Carol and Elaine, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, his sisters Rose and Dympna, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Reposing at his home on Saturday 18 Feb from 1600 to 2000 hours and on Sunday from 1600 to 2000.  Removal on Monday to the Curch of the Assumption, Tullamore for Requiem Mass at 1000.  Burial afterwards in Clonminch Cemetery, Tullamore.  Family flowers only, donations, id desired to Dochas.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Obituary Comdt Joe Campbell (Retd) – 05/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death of Comdt Joseph (Joe) Campbell Retd late of Bray, Leopardstown and Athlone on 12 Feb 2023 at  St Vincent’s University Hospital. Beloved husband of Lindsay, loving father of daughters Lindsay and Heather, sons Colin, Grahame, Adam and Gordon, brother of Patricia and Padraig.  He will be sadly missed by his wife, children and their mother Desna, stepchildren Candice, Kristen and Rowena, grandchildren and great-grandchildren,  extended family,  former comrades, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.  He was predeceased by his sisters Anne and Mary.

He was born in Dec 1944 and he joined the DF as a member of 38 Cdt Class on 7 Oct 1963 and when he was commissioned on 27 Sep 1965, he was appointed to 2 Inf Bn. He later served in 7 Inf Bn FCA as Trg Offr, as a Staff Officer in QMGs Br and he was Aide de Camp to An tUachtaráin.  He was heavily involved in training shooting teams and he had a life-long involvement with Landsdowne Rugby Club.  After he retired he was Assistant Civil Defence Officer for Dublin City Council in the mid- 2000s.

He served overseas in Cyprus with UNFICYP, in the Middle East as a military observer with UNTSO and with UNIFIL.

Reposing at home on Wednesday from 1700 to 2000 hours, removal on Thursday at 1330 to colliers Funeral Home Bray for a funeral service, followed by a cremation, to which all are welcome to attend.  House private, family flowers only, donations, if desired to Purple House Cancer Support Centre.

 Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam dílis.

Obituary Jimmy Ryan Post 24 IUNVA – 05/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With regret we inform members of the death of Jimmy Ryan formerly of 12 Inf Bn, a Congo veteran and a member of Post 24.

Sadly missed by his loving family, wife Joan, sons Seamus and Danny, daughters Miriam, Tara and Siobhan, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, brothers Denis and Eddie, sister Kitty, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Mass for Jimmy took place in St. Michael’s Church, Tipperary on Thursday at 12 noon and burial afterwards in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Tipperary Town.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Obituary BSM Christopher Flynn (Retd) 3 Inf Bn – 03/02/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform members of the death of BSM Christopher (Christy) Flynn, Curragh View, Brownstown, The Curragh. Former BSM 3 Inf Bn, peacefully in the care of St Brigid’s Hospice, The Curragh on 3 Feb 2023.  Sadly missed by his loving wife Christina, his son Christopher, daughter Mandy, grandchildren, extended family, relatives and friends.

He was a veteran of UN service in the Congo, as a Pte with 35 Inf Bn (Jun – Dec 1961) and 39 Inf Bn (Apr – Oct 1963), in Cyprus as a Pte with 40 Inf Bn (Apr – Oct 1964), as a Cpl with 5 Inf Gp (Oct 1965 – Mar 1966, 11 Inf Gp (Sep 1968 – Mar 1969) and he served twice in Lebanon. 

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Obituary BSM Patrick Guerin (Retd) – 25/01/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of a Post 1 member and a veteran of multiple peace support operations, BSM Paddy Guerin (Retd) late of Tallaght and Cathal Brugha Bks on Jan 2023. 

He died peacefully in Tallaght University Hospital on 25 Jan 2023.  He was predeceased by his wife Ann.  He will be dearly missed by his children Noel, Suzanne, Janette, Mark and Julie, his grandchildren, his sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, relatives and friends.  His family are grateful to all those who cared for Patrick in recent years and to his Army family and friends around the world.

Reposing at Fanagan’s Funeral Home Tallaght Village on Saturday 28 Jan from 1500 to 1700 hours.  Removal to St Dominic’s Church Tallaght for Requiem Mass at 1000 on Monday 30 Jan.

Family flowers only, donations, if desired, to the Irish United Nations Veterans association or the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

He enlisted in the DF in 1958 and on completion of recruit training at Griffith Bks he was assigned to CTD (E).  He later served in 5 Inf Bn and then transferred to CTD (E) as an instructor.  He rose through the ranks and was Coy Sgt in CTD (E). In 1988 he was promoted to the rank of BSM in 2 Inf Bn. 

He served twice in the Congo as a Pte A Coy with 32 Inf Bn, the first DF armed unit to serve with the UN in 1960 and as a Cpl with 36 Inf Bn in 1961 – 62 when he fought at the battle of the Tunnel in Elisabethville in Dec 1961.  He served three tours of duty in Cyprus, as a Cpl he served with 2 Pl A Coy, 7 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Oct 1966 to Mar 1967 and with 12 Inf Gp from Mar to Sep 1969.  His last tour of duty was in Cyprus as Camp SM with Camp Comd HQ UNFICYP in 1996.  He completed four tours of duty in Lebanon with 55 Inf Bn in 1984, 59 Inf Bn in 1986, 63 Inf Bn in 1988 and 67 Inf Bn in 1990.

He was a keen and talented sportsman; he had a diploma from UCD in physical education and was an All-Army boxer and an ardent golfer.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Obituary Lieut Col Peter Archbold RETD – 24/01/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death on 24 Jan 2023 of Lieut Col Peter Archbold (Retd) Sallins Rd, Naas and formerly of Ballitore Co Kildare.  He joined the DF as a member of 37 Cdt Class in Oct 1962, he was commissioned in Sep 1964 and he served initially in S Comd in 12 Inf Bn at Kickham Bks, Clonmel.  He later served in the E Comd, in Trg Sec DFHQ and as Regional Civ Def Officer in Limerick.   He was a talented Gaelic footballer and he played on the senior team for his home county Kildare and for Tipperary.  He played rugby with Monkstown Rugby Football Club.   

He first served with the UN as Pl Comd B Coy 7 Inf Gp from Oct 1966 to Mar 1967.  He was Force Welfare Officer at UNIFIL HQ in 1981 – 82, he served two tours of duty with UNTSO in Egypt, Israel and Syria and in as a military observer in Western Sahara with MINURSO in 1999 -2000.

Sadly missed by his loving son Robert, daughter Emer and their mother Claire and extended family, friends and former comrades.   Requiem Mass was held at the Church of Our Lady and St David followed by burial at St Corban’s Cemetery, Dublin Rd Naas.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Obituary Brig Gen Jeremiah (Jerry) Enright (Retd – 18/01/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death in Naas Hospital of Brig Gen Jeremiah (Jerry) Enright (Retd) on Wednesday 18 Jan 2023 in his 94th year.  He was a native of Tarbert, Co Kerry and he lived in Newbridge Co Kildare. He was predeceased by his wife Breda, his sisters, Sister Kevin, Sister Rosalie, Maggie, his brothers Father Tim and Jimmy.  A loving father to Margaret, Catherine, Comdt Derry Enright (Retd), Miriam and Christine.

Reposing at his home on Friday from 1500 with prayers at 1900.  Removal on Saturday  at 1140 to St Conleth’s Parish Church for 1200 hours mass followed by burial in St Conleth’s Cemetery.

 He joined the DF as a member of 23 Cadet Class in 1949 and he was commissioned on 8 May 1951.  He served initially in S Comd and later in the CTC/ C Comd, E Comd and in DFHQ.  His home appointments included Governor Mil Detn Bks, Chief Instr Inf Sch and OC 2 Bde. 

His first UN Service was as Lt, Pl Comd, B Coy 33 Inf Bn ONUC and he led the first patrol to the scene on the Niemba Ambush on the morning of 9 Nov 1960.  He was a Cdt classmate of Lt Kevin Gleeson, Pl Comd A Coy who was killed with eight members of his patrol on 8 Nov 1960.   

As a Capt, he was MP Officer with 4 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Jan to Jun 1965.  He commanded 50 Inf Bn UNIFIL from Nov 1981 to Apr 1982.   As a Brig Gen he was the Chief Military Observer, United Nations Military Observer Group in India & Pakistan (UNMOGIP) in 1990 – 92.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Obituary Former Sgt Frank Fetherson – 11/01/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform members of the death of Francis (Frank) Fetherston, a former fitter Sgt with 4 Mot Sqn/4 Cav Sqn, late of Ballyhaunis Co Mayo and Ballinlough, Co Roscommon. He passed away at Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar.

He served as a peacekeeper in the Congo with the Armd Car Groups of 35 Inf Bn (Jun – Dec 1961), 37 Inf Bn (May – Nov 1962) and 2 Inf Gp (Oct 1963 – May 1964); in Cyprus with 20 Inf Gp (Apr – Oct 1971); in Lebanon with 43 Inf Bn (May – Nov 1978) and 51 Inf Bn (May – Oct 1982).

Deeply regretted by his wife, Florence, brothers, sisters, extended family, relatives and friends.  Funeral Mass was in St. Patricks Church, Granlahanon followed by burial in the local cemetery.

I measc na naomh go raibh sé.

Ex Sergeant Frank Fetherston
Frank Fetherston with 43 Inf Bn in 1978, Photo Credit: Ronnie Howe.

Obituary Lieut Col Peter Hayes (Retd) – 07/01/2023

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we report the death of Lieut Col Peter (Peadar) Hayes (Retd) Raheny Dublin 5 and Clarecastle Co Clare at 101 years of age on 7 Jan.  He was born in Co Clare on 4 Sep 1921.  He joined the DF during the Emergency as a Cadet with 15 Cadet Class in Nov 1941 and he was commissioned in May 1943 and appointed to D Coy 22 Infantry Battalion.  He later served with 7 Inf Bn, CTD (E), 2 Inf Bn, HQ 2 Bde, North Dublin Staff FCA, 5 Inf Bn, Plans and Ops Sec DFHQ, HQ E Comd and Trg Sec DFHQ.  From April to October 1971, he served at HQ UNFICYP in Cyprus. 

Beloved husband of the late Mary and Maureen and father of the late Noretta, Tom and Gerard. Sadly missed by his daughter Mary and his sons John and Kevin, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildrem, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends. 

Requiem Mass was held in the Church of Our Lady, Mother of Devine Grace, Raheny, followed by burial at St Fintan’s Cemetery Sutton.

I measc na naomh go raibh sé.

Obituary Comdt Ciaran Spollen (Retd) – 22/12/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death of Comdt Ciaran Spollen, Annagh, Ballykeeran, and late of Beech Pk, Athlone, a former OC 4 Fd Engr Coy, Custume Bcks, Athlone.  As a Capt, he served as Pl Comd, Aslt Pioneer Pl Comd, HQ Coy, 64 Inf Bn UNIFIL from Oct 1988 to Apr 1989.

He passed away peacefully on Thursday 22 Dec 2022,  He was predeceased by his parents Jack and Girlie, sadly missed by his loving wife, Celia, his son David, daughters Jenny and Susan, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, in-laws, relatives and friends.

Requiem Mass was held in St Anthony’s Church on Wednesday 28 Dec at 1100 followed by cremation afterwards.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Death of Thomas Donnelly – Post 1 IUNVA 16/12/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform members of the death of Thomas Donnelly, a member of Post 1, Cabra West, Dublin on Friday 16 Dec 2022 at the Mater Hospital surrounded by his loving family.  Beloved husband of Eileen and devoted father of Thomas, Jennifer, Richard, Ian and Philip.  He will be sadly missed by his wife, children grandchildren, great-granddaughter, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, sisters, brother, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbours.

Mass was held in the Church of  the Most Precious Blood, Cabra West, followed by cremation in Glasnevin Cemetery.

May he Rest in Peace.

Death of Pte Seán Rooney, 121 Inf Bn UNIFIL – 14/12/2022

From PRO IUNVA

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to the family of Pte Seán Rooney (23) 121 Inf Bn UNIFIL who was killed near Al Aqbieh in Lebanon yesterday (14 Dec 2022) and to the families of the three personnel who were wounded. 
Ar dheis Dé to raibh a anam dílis. 

Pte Rooney joined the DF in Mar 2019 and he was a native of Newtowncunningham, Co Donegal, his parent unit was 27 Inf Bn, Dundalk.  He was on his second tour of duty having served with 119 Inf Bn last year.

Private Sean Rooney 121 Inf Bn UNIFIL Private Sean Rooney,  121 Inf Bn UNIFIL    Rest in Peace
Photo Credit: DF Press Office

During a ceremony at Beirut Airport, UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Major General Aroldo Lázaro posthumously awarded Private Rooney the United Nations UNIFIL Peacekeeping Medal.

Major General Pierre Saab, representing LAF (Lebanese Armed Forces) Commander General Joseph Aoun, awarded him the War Medal, the Wounded Medal, and the Appreciation Medal Bronze Degree from the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and comrades of the personnel who were attacked.  Four of the eight personnel in the two vehicle convoy were taken to hospital after the attack.  The deceased was pronounced dead on arrival at Raee Hospital near the city of Sidon. One soldier, Tpr Shane Kearney was operated on and following repartriation has been released from hospital following treatment for his injuries.

Obituary Brig Gen James Connolly (Retd) 24/11/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform member of the passing of Brig Gen James (Seamus) Connolly (Retd) Kilmacud, Co Dublin and a former GOC AC in his 100th year.  He passed away on Thursdy 24 Nov 2022 in the care of Newtownpark House Nursing Home.  Beloved husband of the late Catherine (Kitty), devoted and much loved father of Jessica, John (Seán), Joanna, Katherine and the late Roddy and Séamus.   He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and Air Corps colleagues.

Reposing at Colliers Funeral Home, Old Connaught Ave, Bray on Tuesday 29 Nov from 1800 to 2000 hours, with prayers at 1945.  Requiem Mass on Wednesday at 1000 in the Church of St Laurence O’Toole, Kilmacud, followed by burial in Shanganagh Cemetery.  Family flowers only please.

He was a grandson of James Connolly who was Commander of the Irish Citizen Army and Commander of the Dublin Bde Irish Volunteers during the 1916 Easter Rising.

He enlisted in the DF during the Emergency and in 1944 he was a member of 4 Young Officers Wings Course in the AC.  He was GOC AC from 1983 to 1986.

In 2016, Gen Connolly and his family donated a a collection of medals awarded to Commandant General James Connolly, 1916 leader, founder and commander-in-chief of the Irish Citizen Army, and to three members of his family:  his daughter, Nora his son, Roddy, and his grandson, Brig Gen James Connolly.  The collection is unique, representing awards given to three generations of the same family in recognition of service given to the State over a period of almost seventy years. 

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

 

Obituary Capt Gerard Wright (Retd) 18/11/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death of Captain Gerard Anthony (Gerry) Wright (Retd) on Friday 18 Nov, Rathfarnham, Dublin late of UCD, in the care of Parke House Nursing Home, Kilcock . 

Adored and beloved husband of Maeve, Gerry will be deeply missed by his heartbroken wife, his children Orla, Aisling, Caoimhe and Aongus, his brother John, his grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family, friends and neighbours. 

Captain Gerard Wright He was born in Mar 1938 and he was from Tipperary Town.  He joined the DF as an Army Cdt with 31 Cdt Class in Dec 1956 and he was commissioned into the Inf Corps in Dec 1958.  He served initially in 3 Inf Bn in the Curragh and later in E Comd.  He served as Pl Comd, C Coy, 36 Inf Bn in the Congo from Nov 1961 to May 1962.  He was Welfare Offr with 13 Inf Gp in Cyprus from Sep 1969 to Apr 1970.  He retired from the DF in the early 1970s and took up an appointment with UCD.

Funeral Mass was in the Church of the Annunciation, Rathfarnham followed by burial at Kilmashogue Cemetery. 

I measc na naomh go raibh sé.

Obituary Col Michael Moriarty (Retd) 03/11/2022

From PRO IUNVA

Colonel Michael MoriartyWith sadness we inform members of the death of Col Michael Moriarty (Retd) on 3 Nov 2022 at his home in Kilmacud, Dublin.  He was predeceased by his wife Anne and he will be greatly missed by his children John, Niamh and Daragh, his adored grandchildren James, Myles and Ishaan, son-in-law Robert and daughter-in-law Deepika, extended family, relatives and friends.

Col Moriarty was commissioned into the Arty Corps in 1952 and he served in Kildare, Mullingar and Dublin.  He commanded 7 FA Regt FCA, 2 FA Regt, Dep Arty, he was D Arty and 2/IC & EO HQ E Comd.  He was a veteran of UN service in ONUC in the Congo as a Lieut with 34 Inf Bn in 1961, in UNFICYP in Cyprus as a Capt with 41 Inf Bn in 1964 – 65, the Middle East with UNTSO in 1974, in Lebanon as a Comdt with HQ Coy, 46 Inf Bn in 1979 – 80 and UNIFIL HQ in 1985 – 86 as a Lieut Col and in Angola in 1989 – 90 with UNAVEM as Chief Liaison Officer in the rank of Col. 

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó

Death of John Taylor – Post 19 IUNVA 30/10/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death at Letterkenny Hospital on Sunday 30 Oct 2022 of retired Sgt John Taylor a member of Post 19 and late of Carrickbrack, Convoy Co Donegal.

John’s home unit was 28 Inf Bn and he also served in the following units overseas;

Sergeant John Taylor

51st Bn UNIFIL            71st Bn Bn UNIFIL
75th Bn Bn UNIFIL       81st Bn Bn UNIFIL
104th Bn Bn UNIFIL     106th Bn Bn UNIFIL
109th Bn Bn UNIFIL       7 Tpt Coy KFOR
29th Inf Gp KFOR        90th Bn UNMIL
97th Bn EUFOR Chad

John TaylorHe was pre-deceased by his parents Johnny and Nora and his sister Noleen.  Much loved husband of Ann, devoted father of Claire and Nora and their families and John’s brother Brian.

Rest in Peace

Death of Congo Veteran Thomas (Tommy) Daly – 28/10/2022

From PRO IUNVA

Tommy DalyWith sadness we inform members of the death of Thomas (Tommy) Daly, Connolly Pk, Tullamore, Co Offaly and late of 3 Inf Bn, he died at Tullamore Hospital on 28 Oct 2022.  As a Pte, he served with C Coy 35 Inf Bn in the Congo.  He was one of the eleven personnel who were guarding College St Francois De Sales (known as the Radio College) in Elisabethville in Katanga Province and they were taken hostage by mercenaries and Katangese Gendarmerie on 14 Sep 1961.  These were the first Irish personnel to be taken hostage during Op Morthor  in the city.  On 22 Sep they were taken to Jadotville where they joined the A Coy hostages and other personnel who were taken prisoner in Elisabethville.  On 25 Oct, the C Coy hostages and other UN personnel were released at the Old Air Strip in Elisabethville in exchange for Gendarmerie and Katangese police who had been captured by the UN.   

He was pre-deceased by his brother Dan and his sister Mary.  He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Nancy, daughter Pattie, sons Brian, Mark and Raymond and his extended family. 

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.

Death of Post 5 Member – Sean Purcell – 07/10/2022

From PRO IUNVA

We regret to inform of the death of Ex Sgt Sean Purcell a member of Post 5 Cork who died today 07/10/2022.

Sean PurcellSean served in 1 Field S&T in Collins Barracks Cork.

Late of Loughmore, Co.Tipperary: He died peacefully after a long illness. bravely borne with great dignity, surrounded by his loving family at Cork University Hospital.

Devoted husband of the late Carmel, loving dad of Paul, Ken, Mark, John, Owen, Teresa and Bernadette.

Sadly missed by his heartbroken sons and daughters, adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

May Sean Rest in Peace.

Death of Veteran – Ex Sgt Joe Callan – 07/10/2022

From PRO IUNVA

We inform our members with sorrow of the passing of a Congo and Cyprus veteran peacekeeper Sgt Joseph (Joe) Callan (Retd), Blackhorse Ave and formerly of McKee Pk, Dublin.

He served in 5 Inf Bn, Collins Barracks, Dublin and completed three tours of duty with ONUC and two with UNFICYP. He was a Cpl with 3 Sec, 3 Pl, A Coy 34 Inf Bn from Jan to Jun 1961, his second tour was with HQ A Coy 36 Inf Bn where he suffered a fractured ankle during the Battle for the Tunnel in Elisabethville on 16 Dec 1961. He was  with the 84 mm A/Tk Sec, Sp Pl, A Coy 38 Inf and this unit fought in Op Grandslam from 28 Dec 1962 to 15 Jan 1963 in the breakout from Elisabethville and seizing Kipushi. He served in Cyprus with A Coy, 41 Inf Bn from Oct 1964 to Jun 1965, his second tour was as Pl Sgt 1 Pl, A Coy 6 Inf Gp from Apr to Sep 1966.

He was buried in Glasnevin Cemetery on 7 Oct following Requiem Mass at the Holy Family Church Aughrim St. 

He was predeceased by his wife Nora, son Bill and daughters-in-law Kathleen and Sheila.  Sadly missed by his children Joseph, Jacinta, Paul, John, Ollie, Pamela, and Alan and their families.

Flash

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó

Death of James Howley  – 05/10/2022

From PRO IUNVA

J HowleyWith sadness we inform members of the death of James Howley late of Crossmolina and Ballina Co Mayo, 1 Cn Cois and 18 Inf Bn FCA at Galway University Hospital on 5 Oct 2022. 

James served in 1 Cn Cois and 18 Inf Bn FCA and was a member of Post 30 IUNVA.

Predeceased by his mother Kathleen and his sister Frances.  Beloved brother of Michael, John, Stephen, David, Declan, Cathy Browne, Margaret Gallagher, Pauline Andrews, Valerie Ryan, Eithne Horan and his partner Trish.  His burial was in Leisheen Cemetery.

Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam

Death of Commandant Diarmuid O’Donoghue – 26/09/2022

From PRO IUNVA

We regret to report the Death of Commandant Diarmuid O’Donoghue, 66 Ashbrook, Oranmore, Co. Galway, on 26th September 2022. Suddenly at home, surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving partner Elaine Fahy, heartbroken children Aisling, Róisín and Ronan, son-in-law Ryan, parents Ray and Frances, sisters Síle and Orla, brothers-in-law Colm and Niall, niece Maeve, nephew Conor, aunts, uncles, beloved friends, neighbours, relatives and his many Defence Force comrades.

He was currently serving in The Military College, Curragh.

Diarmuid O'Donoghue

His Funeral Mass was on 30th September in Church of the Immaculate Conception, Oranmore, Burial afterwards in Renville Cemetery.

 

 

Ar Dheis De go raibh a Anam Dilis.

Obituary Marty Walsh member of Post 30 IUNVA – 24/09/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death Post 30 member, retired Sgt Marty Walsh, Oranmore, Renmore and Westport and late of Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa who died on 24 Sep in the loving care of his wife Emily, daughter Lorna, son Fergal and son-in-law Declan Shaughness by his side. 

Deeply mourned by his  wife and children, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, his sisters  and extended family.  Reposing at St Patrick’s Garrison Church, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa on Monday 26 Sep from 1700 to 1830 hours.  Requiem Mass was celebrated followed by private cremation.  

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.

Death of George Hunt member of Post 1 IUNVA – 12/09/2022

From PRO IUNVA

G HuntIt’s with regret we report the death of George Hunt.  Late of Windmill Road, Crumlin and formerly of UCD Services, Belfield – Earlsfort Terrace and the Irish Defence Forces.

Peacefully surrounded by his loving family, in the wonderful care of the staff of Sir Patrick Dun’s Ward, St. James’ Hospital; devoted husband and best friend of Mary and beloved dad of George, Paul, Elaine, Brian and Janet and pre-deceased by his loving sister Frances and brothers Jimmy and Freddie. Sadly missed by his loving wife, sons, daughters, daughters-in-law Marion, Fiona and Pauline, sons-in-law Bernard and Mark, grandchildren James, Adam, Alibhe, Darragh, Rian, Ava and Laoise, brothers Frankie and Martin, sister Margaret, sister-in-law Freda, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends especially those in the UCD Services and the  Defence Forces.

George, served overseas in the Congo, Cyprus and Lebanon and attained the rank of Sgt Maj in the Defence Forces.

May George Rest in Peace

Death of Eddie Kavanagh member of Post 30 IUNVA – 22/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With regret we inform members of the death of Edward (Eddie) Kavanagh, Bohermore Galway City, late of 1 Inf Bn and a member of Post 30, on 22 Aug in Tenerife.  Predeceased by his father, James and his brother Francis.  Sadly missed by his son Stephen, daughters Karen and Claire, their mother Theresa, his mother Lena, brothers PJ and Ger, sister Marianne relatives and friends.

 

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó

Obituary of Maj Gen Vincent Savino Retd, IUNVA National President – 28/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With deep sadness we inform our members of the death of Maj Gen Vincent Savino Retd, IUNVA National President and one of our founding fathers, a former DF QMG and GOC E Comd, a veteran of peace support operations with ONUC in the Congo, UNFICYP in Cyprus, UNTSO in the Middle East and UNIFIL in Lebanon as OC 44 Inf Bn in 1978 – 79 and a Senior Staff Officer at UNIFIL HQ.

Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Reposing at his residence at Fernhill Park, Manor Estate, Dublin 12 from 1700 to 1900 hours Tuesday 30 Aug 2022. Removal on Wednesday morning to the Church of the Holy Spirit, Kimmage Manor, Whitehall Road, Kimmage, Dublin, D12 WP44, arriving for Requiem Mass at 1000 hours. Cremation Service thereafter at the Garden Chapel, Mount Jerome Cemetery Harolds Cross (Eircode D6W HY98)

Family flowers only, donations if desired to IUNVA

Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.

Obituary of William O’Brien – Post 5 IUNVA – 27/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

It’s with deep sadness that we learned of the death of Ex Sgt Billy O’Brien on 27/08/2022.

Billy was a Member of Post 5  IUNVA Cork

Our condolence to William’s family and friends.

May William Rest In Peace.

Obituary of Tom Hetherington  – Post 11 IUNVA – 17/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With regret we report the death of Tom a member of Post 11 IUNVA of Cathedral Court, Kildare Town, Retd CQMS MacDonagh Barracks, Curragh Camp, on 17th August 2022 (peacefully) at his home with his loving family by his side.

Predeceased by his wife Patricia & brother Richard, sadly missed by his loving family Thomas, Karen, Ian, Nicky & Eoin, daughters & son in law, Brenda, Natasha, Claire, Fiona & Gus, grandchildren Leanne, David, Kayleigh, Una, Lauren, Donal, Alexander, Eoin & Amelia, brother John, sisters Madge & Ann, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives & friends.

May Tom Rest in Peace

Obituary Lieut Col Ned Cusack RIP 16/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death of Lt Col Ned Cusack, Gortachalla, Moycullen, County Galway and formerly of Mitchelstown, Co Cork at the age of 103. He died peacefully at home on Tuesday, 16 Aug 2022.  He was predeceased by his dearly beloved wife Eileen, and much-loved father of Jim, Eleanor, Anne, Eamon, Maura, Rosemary and Maeve. Sadly missed and mourned by his sons and daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, daughters-in-law Rene and Mary, sons-in-law Liam, Edward and Paul, nieces and nephews, sister-in-law Peggy, the extended Cusack and Geoghegan family, neighbours, Defence Forces colleagues and friends, and his wonderful carers

He was born on 1 Mar 1919 and he grew up in Mitchelstown, Co Cork. He enlisted in the DF as a member of the 12 Cadet Class in 1938. He was commissioned in 1939 and was appointed to the Inf Corps and posted to the I Inf Bn, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway. He later served in HQ E Comd, 5 Inf Bn, and was OC 20 Inf Bn FCÁ. On promotion to the rank of Lieut Col he was posted as OC Inf Bn.

He served with the 10 Inf Gp (UNFICYP) from Mar to Sep 1968 as Coy Comd A Coy. 

Reposing at home on Friday, 19 Aug from 1700 hours with removal to the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Moycullen at 1900.  Requiem Mass on Saturday, 20 Aug at 1200 and following Mass he will be laid to rest beside his wife Eileen in the adjoining cemetery.

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.

Photo: Comdt Ned Cusack OC A Coy 10 Inf Gp on the right at a conference at Limnitis Cmp, Cyprus.  Photo Credit Mil Archives

Death of Paddy Bradley Post 1 IUNVA 09/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform members of the death on Tuesday 9 Aug of Patrick (Paddy) Bradley, Finglas, Dublin and Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan, a member of Post 1, he died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.  Beloved husband of Phyllis and loving father of Patrick, Linda, Noel, Tomas and Barry.  Paddy will be sadly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren,daughters-in-law, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Funeral Mass was celebrated in  St Canice’s Church, Finglas Village,  followed by burial in Glasnevin Cemetery.

May Paddy Rest in Peace.

Flash

Obituary Staff QMS Pat Weafer RIP 07/08/2022

From PRO IUNVA

SQ WeaferWith regret we inform our members of the death on Sunday 7 Aug of Patrick (Pat) Weafer Retd, former Staff QMS, McKee Park, Blackhorse Ave, Dublin 7, Bunclody Co Wexford and late of Dep Ord, 2 Inf Bn and 2 Mot Sqn, Pat gave forty two years of devoted service to the Defence Force and to the State. He was a veteran of UN service in Cyprus and Lebanon. He served with Armd Car Gp 10 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Mar to Oct 1968 and with 55 Inf Bn UNIFIL from May to Oct 1984.

Beloved husband of Mary and treasured father of Ann Marie, Patrick and Mattew. Deeply regretted by his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, neighbours, his comrades in 2 Cavalry Squadron Veterans Association and in the wider Defence Forces.

Requiem Mass was celibrated in the Church of the Holy Rosary, McKee Bks. His burial was at the Church of St Mary Magdelene, Kilmyshall Bunclody.

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.

Photo Credit: 2 Cavalry Squadron Veterans Association.

Obituary of Former Cpl Tommy Redican – 29/07/2022

From PRO IUNVA

Cpl T_RadicanWith sadness we inform our members of the death of retired Cpl Tommy Redican (Reddington) 2 Cav Sqn of Clooncraff, Hillstreet, Carrick-on-Shannon, Roscommon and Dublin who died suddenly on Friday 29 July. 

Sadly missed by his wife, Marie, loving daughters Sharon and Niamh, son Mark, grandchildren, sisters Margaret and Madeline, brothers Benny, Gerry and Donie, nephews, nieces, neighbours, relatives, army colleagues and many friends. 

T_Redican

 

 

May Tommy Rest in Peace.

Death of of George Curling – Post 5 IUNVA 28/07/2022

From PRO IUNVA

G CurlingWith regret we inform our members of the passing on Thursday 28 Jul 2022 of George Curling, a member of Post 5 and former RQMS 1 FA Regt and 8 FA Regt at Mercy University Hospital, Cork.  Beloved husband of Marsie, loving father of Tony, Cormac and Bob.  Sadly missed by his loving wife and sons, daughters-in-law, grandson Charlie, brother Freddie, brothers-in-law, relatives and a large circle of friends.

May George Rest in Peace.

Obituary of Michael O’Brien – Post 11 – 22/07/2022

From PRO IUNVAM OBrienWith regret we inform members of the death on 22 July 2022 of Michael O’Brien of Lakeside Pk Newbridge and late of Orchard Pk, the Curragh, a member of Post 11.  Michael was buried at St Conleths Cemetery on Monday last 25 July.  He was predeceased by his partner Tina Hayden.  Sadly missed by his loving daughters Laura, Susan, Bernadette, their partners Des and Barry, grandchildren, step-children, sister Attracta, brother-in-law Linus, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and friends.


May Michael Rest in Peace

Obituary of Sgt Albert (Harry) Dell Retd – 13/07/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Sgt Albert (Harry) Dell St. Columba’s Tce, Athlone, late of 4 Grn S&T Coy on 13 Jul.

He served in the Congo with A Coy 35 Inf Bn ONUC from Jun to Dec 1961 and he fought at Jadotville from 13 to 17 Sep 1961. From Apr to Sep 1965 he served in Cyprus with 42 Inf Bn UNFICYP.

Flash
Sadly missed by his loving son, Alan, daughter-in-law Nikita, great-grandchildren, relatives and many friends.

May he rest in peace.

Death of Ex Sgt Tom Herlihy 1 Cav Sqn – 13/06/2022

From PRO IUNVA

Sgt Tom HerlihyIt is with sadness we inform members of the death of Sgt Thomas (Tom) Herlihy (Retd) Marian Square and Wolfe Tone Park Fermoy and late of Curraghboy Youghal and 1 Cav Sqn.

He passed away peacefully on 13 Jul 2022 surrounded by his family in the exceptional care of the staff of Marymount University Hospital and Hospice. Beloved husband of the late Olive, dear father of Maria, Angela, John and Louise. Brother of Maureen and the late Michael.

 

Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó

Death of Lieut Col Sean Hennessy (Retd) 28/06/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Lieut Col Seán Hennessy (Retd) on 28 Jun at the great age of 98 years.

He was born in Clonmult near Middleton, County Cork in 1923 and he enlisted as a Pte in 1942 during the Emergency. He was awarded a cadetship with the 18th Cadet Class in1943; he was commissioned in 1946 into the Construction Corps. He transferred to the Cav Corps in 1948 and served initially with 2 Mot Sqn, he was posted to 1 Mot Sqn in Fermoy in 1957 where he served in several appointments. He served in DFHQ and in HQ S Comd as a Lt Col until his retirement in 1983.

He served in the Congo as a Capt with the Armd Car Gp 35 Bn ONUC from Jun to Dec 1961 and he was involved in the fighting in Elisabethville during Operation Morthor. He completed a second tour of duty in the Congo with the Armd Car Gp 39 Bn from Apr to Oct 1963. He served in Cyprus with the Armd Car Gp 6 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Apr to Oct 1963.

35 Inf Bn Congo Armd Car Gp

Photo: Capt Sean Hennessy centre of the front row with personnel from 1 Mot Sqn who served with 35 Inf Bn before deployment in Jun 1961.

He was predeceased by his wife, Eileen and his son, Michael. He is survived by his daughters Margaret, Ann and Deirdre and their families and his sister Ann.

Rest in Peace

Death of Tony Jackson Post 6 IUNVA – 19/06/2022

From PRO IUNVA

Tony JacksonWith sadness we report the death of Anthony (Tony) Jackson, Post 6 and late of Silverbirtch Grove, Dooradoyle, Limerick who passed away at University Hospital, Limerick on 19 Jun.
Very deeply regretted by his loving wife Pat, sons David, Declan and Antony, daughter Louise and extended family.

May He rest in Peace.

Death of Pat O’Flaherty Post 30 member & Congo Veteran – 17/06/2022

From PRO IUNVA

Pat O'FlahertyWith sadness we notify members of the death of Pat O’Flaherty, on 17 Jun, a member of Post 30, he served with 32 Inf Bn, the first DF unit to serve in the Congo.

Peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of the late Patricia. Will be sadly missed by his daughters Eilish and Rachel, son Joe.

May His Gentle Soul Rest in Peace.

Passing of IUNVA Post 2 member ex-Sgt Jim Byrnes – June 2022

From PRO IUNVA

J ByrnesIt is with sadness I report the passing of our esteemed Post 2 member, Jim Byrne.
Jim lived in 4, Court Villas, Rathkeale, Co. Limerick, late of Reens, Ardagh and unexpectedly in the care of University Hospital, Limerick.

Jim served in the 4th Bn and overseas in the 13th, 20th and 25th Inf. Gps., Cyprus.
Jim also served in Lebanon with the 47th, 51st and 54th Inf. Bns.

Rest in Peace

Death of Paddy O’Sullivan Post 29 IUNVA – 26/05/2022

From PRO IUNVA

It’s with sadness that we report the death of Veteran, Paddy O’Sullivan in London, UK. Paddy was a member of Post 29 Carlow IUNVA.

Patrick O’Sullivan of UK and formerly of No.1 Conway Park, Bagenalstown, Co Carlow, passed away peacefully on 26th May, 2022 at Norfolk & Norwich Hospital with his son Daniel & Daughter in Law Roz by his side. Predeceased by his brother Michael, son Liam & granddaughter Emma. Beloved father of Sean, Julia, Michael & Daniel. Deeply regretted by his brother Daniel, grandchildren Emily, Emma, Katie, Niamh, Sian, Daniel, Kelly & Rachel, daughters in law Roz & Jackie, nieces Paula, Mary, Sheila & Elaine, nephew Patrick, grandnephews, grandnieces and all his relatives, comrades and friends.

 

May Patrick’s Gentle Soul Rest in Peace.

Our Deepest Condolence to Paddy’s family and friends.

Death of Joe Hynes Post 11 IUNVA

From PRO IUNVA

We regret to report the death of Joe Hynes .

J_HynesJoe a member of Post 11, from Cherrybank, Brownstown, The Curragh, Co. Kildare, formerly Loughmore, Co. Tipperary, 1st Armoured Car Squadron Retd, Plunkett Barracks. Loving husband of Mary (Dwyer), loving father of Mandy & Grace, loving grandfather of Alannah-Rose, son-in-law Johnny, brother Patsy & sister-in-law, Eileen (Thurles), his dog Bear, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews relatives & friends. Pre-deceased by his parents Matty & Bridie, brothers Michael & Martin, brother-in-law Lofty.

May Joe Rest In Peace

Death of John Moroney Post 5 IUNVA – 23/05/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness, we inform our members of the death of John Moroney of Post 5 IUNVA and retired CQMS 4 Inf Bn Collins Bks Cork.

John Moroney

Rip.ie notice reads: The death has occurred of John (Sean) Moroney Buttevant Co. Cork and formerly of Millmount Kilmallock Co Limerick. Late Army Veteran. May 23rd 2022. Peacefully in the tender care of all the staff of Maria Goretti Nursing Home Kilmallock. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Julia Moroney, his brother Mike, and his grandson Sam. Very deeply regretted by his sons Michael, Ger and Shane, daughter Grainne, daughter in law Anna, sisters Eileen, Sheila, Mary, Jane, Rita and Kitty, brothers in law, grandchildren Jenelle, Michael, CJ, Eliana, greatgrand daughter Saoirse, cousins, relatives, kind neighbours and his many friends.


May He rest In Peace.

Death of John (Baby) McCARTHY Post 6 IUNVA – 01/05/2022

From PRO IUNVA

M. WalshIt is with deep sadness we report the passing of veteran John ( Baby ) McCarthy ex 12th Inf Bn, Sarsfield BKs Limerick, on Sunday 1st May 2022.
John died peacefully, surrounded by his family, at home in Georgian Village, Old Cork Road, Limerick City.

Sadly missed by his heartbroken family, his loving wife Marie, children Kieran, Teena, Tom & Jessica, sons-in-law Martin & David, daughters-in-law Marian & Rachel, grandchildren Jamie, Cian, Sophie, Zoey, Erin, Isabella, Emma & Aaron, sisters, brother, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, aunts, nieces, nephews, relatives and a wide circle of friends.

Rest in Peace.

Death of Joe Hanley Post 32 IUNVA – 29/04/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we report the death of Joe Hanley, Post 32, Tralee, Co Kerry on 29 Apr 2022.

Sadly missed by his loving family, his brother Anthony, sister Pauline, the Goodall and Quirke families, relatives and friends.

Rest in Peace.

Death of Charlie Raleigh Post 3

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we report the death of Charlie Raleigh, a member Post 3 from Graigemore, Bunclody Co Wexford and a veteran of A Coy, 36 Inf Bn ONUC, he was involved in the fighting in Elisabethville in Dec 1961 during Op Unokat. His parent unit was 5 Inf Bn.

Beloved husband of Betty and father of Kieran. Brother of Mary, Eve, Kevin, George and the late Jack, Jim and Nancy. Sadly missed by his wife, son, sisters, brothers, daughter-in-law Vanessa, his grandchildren Freya and Callum, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

May Charlie Rest In Peace

Death of Capt Brendan Lynch (Retd) S&T Corps – 23/04/2022

From PRO IUNVA

With sadness we inform our members of the death of Capt Brendan Lynch (Retd) (Dungarvan Co Waterford and Co Dublin) who died on 23 Apr 2022.

Capt lynchHe joined the Defence Forces with 41 Cadet Class in 1966 and when he was commissioned in 1968, he was posted to the Supply and Transport Corps.
Two of his brothers served in the Defence Forces, Commodore Frank Lynch and Comdt Eamonn Lynch.
Brendan served in UNIFIL as Transport Officer 44 Inf Bn in 1978 – 1979.

He died at St Francis Hospice Blanchardsown after a hard fought battle.
Sadly missed by his loving and heartbroken wife Wendy, sons Eoin and Killian, stepdaughter Thérese, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, relatives and friends.


Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Death of  Michael McEvilly Post 9 IUNVA – 17/04/2022

From PRO IUNVA

The death has occurred of Michael McEvilly, Athlone a Member of Post 9 IUNVA.
M. Mc'EvillyRetired Irish Defence Forces (4th Field Signals) and member of Post 9 IUNVA. Peacefully on Sunday 17th April 2022. Magazine Avenue, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.

Predeceased by his beloved sons Michael and Eddie, and daughter Fiona. Sadly missed by his loving sons Thomas, David, and Patrick, daughters Martina, Cathorina and Amanda, brother Marty, in-laws, nephews, nieces, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and friends.

Rest In Peace

Death of Robert (Bobby) Donoghue Post 1 – 6th April 2022

From PRO IUNVA

The death has occurred of Robert (Bobby) Donoghue Inchore, Dublin, a Member of Post 1 IUNVA.


Bobby late of Inchicore and retired CQMS. Beloved husband of Rita and much-loved father of Geraldine, Catherine and Teresa. Sadly missed by his loving wife and family, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

May he rest in peace.

Death of Lieut Col George Staunton (Retd) 5th April 2022

From PRO IUNVA

We extend our condolences to Col Mark Staunton and the Staunton family on the death of Lt Col
George B Staunton (Retired). Funeral arrangements are as follows:
The death has occurred of Lt. Col. (retired) George Staunton, Ashbrook Gardens, Ennis Rd, Limerick
City, formerly of Tuam and Dublin & late of Castletroy Golf Club. Beloved husband of the late
Jackie. Sadly missed by his loving sons Brian & Mark, daughters Ciara (Murphy) & Aoife, son-in-law Liam, daughters-in-law Sandra & Orla, grandchildren Niamh, Cathal & Roisín, Conor, Tom, Ryan & Flynn, Ronan, Darragh, Colm & Shane, sister Noreen (Farrelly), sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Rest in Peace.

He joined the Defence Forces as a Cadet with 29 Cadet Class in 1954 and he was commissioned on 26 Nov 1956. He served in the Curragh in Dep Sigs, he was OC 3 Fd Sigs Coy FCA in Limerick, OC 1 Fd Sigs Coy in Collins Barracks, Cork. He retired as OC S Comd FCA.
He served in Cyprus with 7 Inf Gp from Oct 1966 to Mar 1967. As a Lt Col he served at UNIFIL HQ.

Death CQMS M. McTighe – (Rtd) 30/03/22

From PRO IUNVA

The death has occured of CQMS Michael Tighe (Retd), on 30 March 2022
Michael he 17th Inf Bn, Connolly Barracks, Longford he also served overseas with 32 Inf Bn, the first unit to serve in the Congo, his parent unit was then 6 Inf Bn. One year later he returned to the Congo and served with A Coy 35 Inf Bn and he fought at Jadotville in Sep 1961 and in Elisabethville in Dec 1961.

 He will be sadly missed by his beloved wife Alice, daughters Sandra Martin (Celbridge) and Antonette Keenan (Longford), sons Michael (U.S.A.) and Mark (Cavan), daughters-in-law Maureen and Patricia, sons-in-law Michael and Brendan, grandchildren Dara, Shaena, Erin, Michael, Connor, Ben, Mia, Lauren, Tíornaigh and Ruán, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace.

The family very much appreciates your support and consideration at this time.

 

 

 

May he rest in peace.

Death of Captain John Clarke (Retd)

We extend our deepest sympathy to IUNVA’s Deputy President Major Gen Kieran Brennan Retd and to his wife Maria on the death of her father, Capt John Clarke, Newbridge Co Kildare.

John Clarke, Cornelscourt, Newbridge & formerly Ballyknockan, Co. Wicklow. Founder of Johnstown Garden Centre. Deeply regretted by wife Elsie, children, Jim, Maria, Sean, Pat & Peter, & extended family.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Robbie Dyland – 23rd February 2022

We regret to report of the sad loss of Robert (Robbie) Dyland son of Post 1 member David Dyland.
R. Dyland
Late of 7th Infantry Battalion, Cathal Brugha Barracks. Peacefully at Saint Francis Hospice in the loving care of his heartbroken family. Beloved fiancé of Lauren, adored son of Barbara and David and loving brother of Eve. Robbie will be sadly missed and remembered with love by his Fiancée, Mam and Dad, extended family, neighbours, friends, Defence Forces colleagues, and all who knew him.

Our deepest condolences to David and Barbara at this very sad time.

May Robert Rest in Peace.

 

Death of Lieut Col Pearse McCorley (Retd) – 13th February 2022.

 

It is with regret we inform you of the death of Lieut Col Pearse McCorley (Retd), Newbridge Co Kildare.

He joined the Defence Forces in Dec 1961 as a member of 36 Cadet Class and he was commissioned on 15 July 1963.  He served in the Curragh Training Camp (later C Comd) with 4 Mot Sqn, the Cav Sch, 1 Armd Car Sqn, Cav Workshops, Dep Cav, HQ CTC, P&R Sec DFHQ, GTD, HQ 6 Bde, HQ 4 Bde and HQ C Comd FCA. 

He completed two tours of duty with UNFICYP with the Armd Car Gps of 3 Inf Gp in 1964 and 11 Inf Gp in 1968-69.  He served three tours of duty with UNIFIL in 1980-81, in 1984 and in 1988-89.  He spent fourteen months in Central America as a UN military observer in 1991-92.  In 1994-95 he served with the European Community Monitoring Mission in the Former Yugoslavia and in 1995 he returned to the Balkans with the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina.  He retired in January 2002.

May Pearse Rest In Peace

Carpe Diem

Photo caption:  Pearse McCorley photographed in Central America while serving with the United Nations Observer Group in Central America (ONUCA) in 1991-92.  He is standing at number 3 from the right.

Photo credit: private collection of the late Col Sean Norton DSM.

John Byrne

We regret to report the death of a former 2 Cav Sqn Sgt John Byrne who, as a young Tpr in 2 Mot Sqn, served with UNFICYP in Cyprus and later as a NCO with UNIFIL in Lebanon.

Corrduff and late of Cametiu, Bunclody Co Wexford. Loving husband of Rose and step-father of Lisa, Louise and little John. Brother of Jim, Lar, Pat, Martin, Ann, Stacia, Kit and the late Mary and Matt. Sadly missed by his wife, step family, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, relatives, neighbours and friends.

May John’s soul Rest In Peace

Seamus Furlong

We regret to notify the death of Veteran Seamus Furlong who served in Dep Cav and in a number of UNIFIL Bns in Recce Coy as a Fitter Cpl.

Recce Coy 46 Inf Bn

Peacefully on Sunday 6th February 2022, in the wonderful care of the nurses and staff at Gorey District Hospital. Seamus will be sadly missed and remembered with love by his loving wife Ann, daughter Lorna and her partner James, brother Matt, sisters Gretta, Josie and Eileen, his adored granddaughters Nahla and Milah, brothers in-law, sisters in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and his many friends.

May He Rest In Peace

The photograph was taken in Sep 2021 at Cav Corps Memorial Day in Plunkett Bks.

 

Andrew McKenna Post 1 IUNVA

The death has occurred of Andrew McKenna Post 1, on 5th February 2022, a Veteran who served with ONUC in the Congo.

Andrew of Finglas, Dublin 11 and formerly Rathnew, Co. Wicklow and late of the 5th Battalion Garrison Transport, McKee Barracks.
Peacefully in Connolly Memorial Hospital, Blanchardstown, surrounded by his family.
Predeceased by his beloved wife Bridget, children Andrew, Raymond and Annette.
Andrew will be very sadly missed by his loving family Elizabeth, Yvonne, Caroline, Kevin, and Ciaran, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, Ciaran’s partner, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, his loyal pal Patch the dog, extended family neighbours and friends.
 
May he Rest in Peace.

Martin Page Post 1 IUNVA

The death has occurred of Martin (Lags) Page (Snr), Melitta Terrace, Melitta Road, Kildare Town, Kildare, on 21st January 2022.

Ex-Defence forces – formerly of Magee Barracks, Kildare Town.
Peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff at Naas Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Husband of the late Sally, son of the late William and Margaret Page, sister Vera and brothers Philip and Billy.


Sadly missed by his loving children Tracey, Martin (Jnr) and Kiera, grandchildren Chloe and Declan, sisters Kathleen, Mary, Geraldine and Mena, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends and his beloved pet dogs Buster and Ruby.

 

May Martin rest in peace.

Comdt John Terence (Terry) McNulty (Retd)

I regret to inform you of the death of Comdt John Terence (Terry) McNulty (Retd) who died on 12 Jan 2022 a few weeks short of his 91st birthday. He joined the Defence Forces as a member of 24 Cadet Class in 1950 and was commissioned into the Inf Corps on 10 Nov 1951. He served mainly in the Eastern Comd with 2 Inf Bn and in DFHQ with Ops Sec. He served as an unarmed military observer with UNTSO in the Middle East in 1974. He was a member of the Reconnaissance Party that travelled to Lebanon in May 1978 in preparation for the deployment of the first DF unit, 43 Infantry Battalion, to UNIFIL.

Funeral details as follows.

 Beloved husband of Ann and loving father of Aidan, Siobhan, Ciara and Eileen. Sadly missed by his family, his grandchildren Amelia, Ellie, Harry, Ella, Sean, Ciara, John and Claire, great-grandchildren Harry and Fionn, daughter-in-law Sandra, sons-in-law George and Garet, brother Ray, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Rest in Peace.

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis

Joe McGuinness

The death has occurred of Joe McGuiness, Shanballymore, Cork / Horseleap, Co Offaly, on 10th January 2022.

Formerly Ardnurcher Glebe, Horseleap Offaly.  Peacefully at the University Hospital Limerick. Predeceased by his daughter Michelle, by his parents Jack & Mary Bridget, brother P.J. Mc Guinness (Clara), sister Kitty Jennette (Tullamore) and sister Maggie Higgins (Moate). Deeply regretted by his loving son Mark, his brothers and sisters Mary McManus (Athlone), Ber Monagle (Athlone), John McGuinness (Horseleap), Liam Mc Guinness (Tullamore), Josie Farrell (Manorhamilton), Nuala Heffernan (Tullamore), Patricia Burke (Ballinasloe), Philomena Arnold (England), Tom McGuinness (Australia), Frances Irving (Tullamore), Pauline Maker (England) and Geraldine Mogridge (Scotland), brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.

May Joe Rest In Peace

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis

 

Brigadier General Jack Kissane (Retd) Post 30

The death has occurred of Brigadier General Jack (Seán) Kissane, Salthill, Galway / Lisselton, Co Kerry (peacefully) at his home in Salthill in the loving care of his family, on Wednesday 5th January 2022. Pre-deceased by his first wife Mary (née Hassett), brothers Fr. Michael, Edward, Richie and sisters Mary and Peggy McElligott. 

Beloved husband of Maureen (née Dunleavy) and the late Mary, much loved father of Niamh Ryan (Tipperary), Katherine Stapleton (Naas), John (Wales), Lorna Mayne, (Dubai) and Keith (Galway).  Deeply mourned by his wife and family, his sister Hannah May Liston, daughters-in-law Corrin and Hilary, sons-in-law Dominic, Eoin and Steve, adored grandchildren, nieces, nephews, the extended Kissane, Dunleavy and Hassett families, neighbours and friends. 

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis

Michael Doherty

Funeral notice for Michael Doherty a member of Post 30.  He served in the Congo with C Coy 37 Inf Bn from May to Nov 1962, his parent unit was 1 Inf Bn. 

Michael, late of Ballydavid, Athenry, Co, Galway and Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo, who passed away, peacefully, in Mayo General Hospital, after a short illness, on Sunday, 14th November, 2021.

Predeceased by his parents Catherine and Michael, sisters Rita and Monica and his grandson Danny.

Michael will be missed by Stella, their son Karl and daughter Theresa (UK), grandchildren Titula, Phoebe, Danielle, Jade and Marcus (UK), brothers Noel, Henry and Gerry (Athenry), sisters Anne Higgins (Carnmore), Lilly Scahill (Corofin), Maureen Goddard and Patsy Wilsher (UK) brothers in-law, sisters in-law, his many nieces, nephews and cousins and his wide circle of friends in Athenry and Ballyhaunis. 

 Rest in Peace.

THOMAS KENNY (RIP)

With deep regret we report the death of Thomas Kenny who was one of the two survivors of the Niemba Ambush in which nine personnel from Number 2 Pl, A Coy 35 Inf Bn were killed on 8 Nov 1960 Congo.

(Ballyfermot, Dublin 10) October 30, 2021 – (peacefully) at Our Lady’s Hospice, in the presence his loving family.

Beloved husband of the late Rose. He will be very sadly missed by his loving children and their spouses, grandchildren and their spouses, great-grandchildren, extended family, friends, and his three boys with the four legs.


May he Rest in Peace.