Obituary Former RSM Denis Hayden- 10/03/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 10 Mar 2025 of former RSM Denis 
Hayden, Ballymorris Rd, Portarlington, Co Laois and late of Dep MP Corps, The Curragh Camp, Co Kildare. He passed away peacefully in his 94th year at Suncroft Lodge Nursing Home surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his loving wife Margaret (Madeline) son Denis (Jazzy), his parents & sisters. Sadly, missed by his loving family, sons Francis, Philip and Martin, daughters Marion, Carmel and Yvonne, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Pat and John, daughters-in-law Charlotte, Valerie, Liz and Una, brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and friends.
Reposing at Anderson & Leahy’s Funeral Home, Henry Street, Newbridge, on Tuesday 11 Mar from 1600 with prayers at 1900. Removal on Wednesday morning 12 Mar at 1030 to arrive at St. Brigid’s Garrison Church, The Curragh for Requiem Mass at 1100. Denis’s mass will be livestreamed on https://www.facebook.com/TheCurraghChurch/. Burial afterwards to St Michael’s Cemetery, Portarlington, Co Offaly.
Síocháin síoraí dá anam uasal.
Obituary former Pte Larry Geraghty- 25/01/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 25 Jan 2025 of former Pte Laurence (Larry) Geraghty, Suncroft and late of Piercetown, Newbridge and the Transport Corps, Clarke Bks The Curragh Camp. He passed away peacefully at his home. Sadly missed by his loving wife Peggy, sons and daughters Mary, Martha, Yvonne and Laurence, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sisters, Ann and Phil, brothers Tony, Peter and Michael, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 01 Feb 2024 at St Conleth’s Parish Church, Newbridge with burial afterwards in St Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Obituary Congo Veteran Joe Boland – 16/01/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 16 Jan 2025 of Joseph (Joe) Boland, Curragh View, Brownstown, The Curragh, formerly of Killygordon, Co Donegal and late of Dep Engrs, McDermott Bks, Curragh camp. He passed away peacefully in Naas hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his loving wife Molly. Sadly missed by his loving family, Jenny, Billy, Terry, Angie & Paul, sons and daughters in law, grandchildren, Sinéad, Sarah, Wayne, Daniel, Ian, Rachel, Terry, Céire and Ellie, great-grand-children Lucy, Tanner, Scott, Charlie, Leo and Sophie, brother, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was held on Monday 20 Jan 2024 at St. Brigid’s Church, The Curragh for 11am Mass. Burial afterwards in Holy Cross Cemetery, Suncroft.
He served with HQ Coy, 36 Inf Bn in the Congo.
Solas geal na bhflaitheas dá anam.
Obituary Jimmy Coyle – 10/01/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 10 Jan 2025 of Jimmy Coyle, Yellowbatter, Drogheda, Co Louth and late of 30 Inf Bn, Stephens Bks, Kilkenny. Jimmy passed away suddenly, he was predeceased by his dad Eamonn, brothers Danny and Stephen and niece Tayna. Sadly missed by his Mum Kitty, sister Annette and Yolanda, brothers Shane and Roy, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, extended family and a large circle of friends.
Funeral Mass was held on 18 Jan 2025 in Our Lady of Lourdes Church Drogheda, Co. Louth with burial afterwards in St Peter’s Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Obituary Retired Cpl Tommy Rennick – 11/01/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 11 Jan 2025 of former Cpl Thomas (Tommy) Rennick, Henry Lane, Newbridge, Co Kildare and late of AMC, Curragh Camp. He passed away peacefully at home. Father of the late Thomas. Sadly missed by his loving daughter Deb, son Trevor and their mother Geraldine, grandchildren, son in law Dwayne, daughter in law Laoighse, brothers John-Bunjie (Rip), Ian (Rip), Niall, Timmy and Freddy, sisters Vanessa and Marina, brothers and sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, friends and army colleagues.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at St Brigid’s Garrison Church, Curragh on 18 Jan 2024. Cremation service after in Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold’s Cross, Dublin.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Obituary Retired Sgt John Doyle – 05/01/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 5 Jan 2025 of retired Sgt John Doyle Lerr Road, Abbeylands, Castledermot, Co Kildare formerly of Crandoon, Ballitore, Athy and late of 3 Inf Bn, The Curragh Camp. He passed away peacefully, in the loving care of the staff of St. Brigid’s Hopsice, The Curragh. He was predeceased by his loving wife Margaret and daughter Mary. Deeply regretted by his loving children Ita, John, Martin and Mairead, sisters Ita and Lily, sons-in-law Dermot and Conor, grandchildren Odhran, Saoirse, Donnacha, Éabha and Eoghan, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
His funeral mass was celebrated on Wednesday 8 Jan2024 at the Church of Ss Mary & Laurance, Crookstown and he was buried in the adjoining Cemetery.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Obituary Retired CQMS Simon Devereux – 06/01/2025
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 6 Jan 2025 of retired CQMS Simon Devereux, Glen Abhainn Ave, Enfield Co Meath and late of the Ord Corps and PDFORRA. Father of the late Mark. Sadly missed by his wife Susan, his children Simon, Robert, Anthony, Louise, Alan and Laura. Deeply regretted by his sisters and brothers, Margaret, Kathleen, John, Tom, Frances and Teresa and the late Mary and Eileen, daughter-in-law Lorraine, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and extended family, and a large circle of friends and former colleagues.
Requiem Mass was held on Thursday 9 Jan in the Church of the Assumption, Jordanstown, Enfield with burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Simon was from Newtown, Wellingtonbridge, Co Wexford and he joined the DF at the Curragh Training Camp in Dec 1974. He served initially with 1 Grn Ord Coy and he was transferred to 4 Grn Ord Coy in Athlone in 1978. He was elected as Deputy Gen Sec of PDFORRA in 2002. He retired in Oct 2014.
He completed two tours of duty with UNIFIL, in 1980 and in 1982.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis
Obituary Col John A. Ryan (Retd) – 23/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 29 Dec 2024 of Col John A Ryan, Raheny, Dublin and late of DFHQ. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years, Joan, in 2023. He will be very sadly missed by his son Michael and heartbroken daughter Helen, Michael’s partner Kristen, nephews, nieces and children of the extended families of Ryan and Staord.
Peace. Reposing in Staffords Funeral Home, Golf Links Road, Portmarnock on Thursday 2 Jan, from 1500 to 1700. Removal to Our Lady Mother of Divine Grace Church, Raheny on Friday morning for 1000 Funeral Mass followed by burial in St Fintan’s Cemetery, Sutton. Family flowers only please. House private. A live stream of John’s Funeral Mass can be viewed on the following link: https://www.rahenyparish.ie/watch-us-live/
Col Ryan was born in Dublin in 1928 and he joined the DF as a Cdt with 21 Cdt Class in May 1948 and on commissioning in May 1950 he was assigned to 12 Inf Bn at Sarsfield Bks, Limerick. He later served as Trg Offr with East Limerick Bn FCA and he was transferred to E Comd and he served in 2 Inf Bn, 27 Inf Bn and as OC 20 Inf Bn FCA. As a Lieut Col he served as Comd Adjt E Comd and as Col he was D P&R Sec and D MPC at DFHQ.
He was the last survivor of the fifty Irish officers who served with the United Nations Observation Group in Lebanon (UNOGIL) in 1958; he was a Lieut at the time. His second tour of peacekeeping duty was in the Congo as Capt, SO, B Coy, 33 Inf Bn from Aug 1960 to Jan 1961. He served as Liaison Officer to the Greek Cypriot National Guard at HQ United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) as a Comdt in 1975. His last overseas tour of duty was in 1985 -1986 when he was MA to the FC Lieut Gen William Callaghan DSM with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). On 29 Jun 2024, IUNVA National President, Maj Gen Kieran Brennan (Retd) presented Col Ryan’s Congo Certificate of Appreciation to his nephew, Brig Gen Stephen Ryan, GOC 2 Bde at the Post 9 ceremony in Custume Bks, Athlone.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Obituary Comdt Martin Flanagan (Retd) – 23/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 28 Dec 2024 of Comdt Martin Flanagan (Retd), Montree, Athlone and late of Custume Bks, Athlone. He passed away peacefully in the company of his loving family, in the Galway Clinic, supported by the wonderful staff that cared for him during his time there. Predeceased by his infant daughter Tina and his brother Colm. Martin will be forever missed by his wife Colette, daughter Gabrielle and adored grandchildren Patrick and Ellen, son-in-law David, brother Eamon (Dublin), sister Mary (Dublin), brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, ex Army colleagues, Camino SOI, neighbours and many friends.
Reposing at The Strand Funeral Home (N37 E6K0) on Monday from 1600 to 1800. Mass of the Resurrection on Tuesday at 1200 in St Mary’s Church followed by Burial afterward in Coosan cemetery. Family Flowers only, donations if desired to Autism Ireland Martin’s funeral mass can be streamed live on http://www.churchservices.tv/athlonestmarys
He enlisted in Oct 1968 as a member of 43 Cdt Class, he was commissioned in Sep 1970 and he served in W Comd.
His overseas service included Coy Comd HQ Coy, 61 Inf Bn from Apr to Nov 1987. Also Welfare Officer 77 Inf Bn from Apr to Oct 1995.
Síocháin síoraí dá anam uasal.
Tony Molloy- 23/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 23 Dec 2025 of Tony Molloy (Tipp Tony), Borrisokane, Co Tipperary and late of 12 Inf Bn. He passed away suddenly at his home. Predeceased by his mother Rose, father Paddy, brother Martin, baby nephew Patrick Joseph and his loving Buddy. Sadly missed by his daughter Kathy, son in law Sean and his loving granddaughter Chloe, sisters Bridie and Mary, brothers Johnny & PJ, sister in law Kathy and brother in law Mike. Also missed by his many nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives, neighbours and friends far and wide.
Reposing on Monday 30 Dec at Sullivans Funeral Home , Main Street, Borrisokane from 1700 to 1900. Funeral arriving to S.S Peter and Paul’s Church, Borrisokane on Tuesday morning 31 Dec at 1045 for funeral mass at 1100. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Family flowers only, donations, if desired, to the Irish Heart Foundation. House Strictly Private Please.
Tony served in Cyprus with B Coy, 13 Inf Gp from Sep 1969 to Apr 1970.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Retired Sgt Noel O’Connell – 26/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 26 Dec 2024 of retired Sgt, Noel O’Connell, GTD, Allenview Heights, Newbridge, Co Kildare, formerly of Pearse Tce, The Curragh Camp. Peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff of Naas Hospital (The Curragh Ward) surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving wife Pat, daughters Deirdre and Joanne, son David, son-in-law Noel, daughter-in-law Joanne, his adored grandchildren Jason, Shane, Rachael and Lorna, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Reposing at Glennons Funeral Home, 32 Main Street, Newbridge from 1600 on Sunday with Rosary at 1800. Removal by Glennons Funeral Directors on Monday 30 Dec 2024 to arrive at St. Conleths Parish Church, Newbridge for Requiem Mass at 1100. Burial afterwards in St. Conleths Cemetery, Newbridge. Mass will be live-streamed on https://newbridgeparish.ie/parish-church Family flowers only please, Donations if desired to The Palliative Care Team at Naas Hospital.
May Noel Rest in Peace.
Derek Doyle – 19/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death in a road traffic accident on 19 Dec 2024 of Derek Doyle, Clonsilla, formerly of Cabra West, Dublin, late of the AC Ministerial Air Transport Service and Usher at Leinster House. Beloved husband of Tania, cherished father of Hazel, son of the late Mary and Peter, brother of Jane and the late Helen and Vincent and son-in-law of the late Kay and Fran Dillon. Sadly missed by his loving family, brothers-in-law David and Greg, sister-in-law Claire, nephews Sean, James, Matthew and Dean, relatives and a large circle of friends.
Friends and family of the Doyle family are welcome to come pay respects on Monday 30 Dec 2024, between 1700 and 1900. Removal to the Church of the Most Precious Blood, Cabra West on Tuesday morning 31 Dec arriving for Requiem Mass at 1015 followed by cremation in Glasnevin crematorium. Family flowers only please. Donations if desired to the St. Vincent De Paul.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Capt Brendan O’Callaghan (Retd) – 19/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 19 Dec 2024 of Capt Brendan Felix O’Callaghan (Retd) (known as Felix), Doylesfort Road, Dundalk, Co Louth and late of Dep Cav, Plunkett Bks, Curragh Training Camp. He will be forever loved and missed by his devoted wife and best friend Anne, daughter Terri and sons Ian, Gary and Felix, sisters Ann and Breda, brothers Pat & Jim, sisters & brothers in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, many friends, former Óglaigh na hÉireann,
Cremation was held in Lakelands Crematorium, Co Cavan on Sunday 22 Dec 2024.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Obituary Mick Hogan – 14/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 14 Dec 2024 of Michael (Mick) Hogan, Killure, Goresbridge, Co Kilkenny, and formerly of Newbridge, Co. Kildare and late of 4 Mot Sqn and 1 Grn Ord Coy, Curragh Camp. Michael died peacefully surrounded by family in Waterford Palative Care centre. He was predeceased by his father James, mother Mary & brother Eamon. Sadly missed by his wife Ann, children Michael, Cathy, Jason, Carol, Marcus and James; grandchildren Kirby, Kalem, Tori, Ava & Louie. daughters-in-law Mandie & Pau, son-in-law Michael, brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers in law, Monica and all extended family, friends and neighbours.
Funeral Mass was held on 16 Dec at 1100 in the Church of the Holy Trinity Goresbridge. Burial afterwards in Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery Goresbridge.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Obituary Joe Rafter – 08/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 8 Dec 2024 of Joseph (Joe) Rafter, Joe, late of Killinarden Estate, Dublin and Freshford, Co Kilkenny and 2 Cav Sqn, he passed away peacefully at home. Predeceased by his loving wife Catherine and grandson Lorcan. Much loved father of daughters Martina, Anita, Catriona and Sabrina and son Joseph. He will be sadly missed by his sister Mary and brothers Seamus and John, grandchildren, great-grandchild, Sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, brotherin-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, family, friends and neighbours.
Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday 11 Dec in the Sacred Heart Church, Killinarden, followed by burial in Newlands Cross Cemetery.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Obituary Noel Shanahan Post 11 IUNVA – 05/12/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 5 Dec 2024 of Post 11 member Noel Shanahan, Orchard Park, The Curragh, Co Kildare and late of AMC Curragh. He passed away peacefully at Naas Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Brother of the recently deceased John. Sadly missed by his loving wife Vera, sons Jason and Patrick, daughter Eileen, daughter in law Lorraine, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at St Brigid’s Church, The Curragh with bBurial afterwards in Holy Cross Cemetery, Suncroft.
Síocháin síoraí dá anam uasal.
Obituary Jimmy Behan Post 1 IUNVA – 28/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 28 Nov 2024 of Post 1 member James (Jimmy) Behan, Kildare and formerly of Ballyfermot, Dublin and late of 2 Cav Sqn and Dep Ord. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in the wonderful care of the ICU team in Beaumont Hospital. Loving father of Alison. James will be very sadly missed by his daughter, son-in-law Andrew, grandchildren, Abbie, Sophie and Cian, brothers and sisters, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbours.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 3 Dec in the Church of the Assumption, Ballyfermot, followed by cremation in Newlands Cross.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Obituary Frank Dunne Post 20 IUNVA – 27/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 27 Nov 2024 of Post 20 member, Francis (Frank) Dunne, O’Growney Gardens and late of 4 FA Regt, Columb Bks, Mullingar, Co Westmeath. He passed away unexpectedly surrounded by his loving family, in the tender care of the staff at the Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar. Predeceased by his parents Patrick and Sarah, brothers Billy, Gerry, P.J. and his twin Philip, sisters Marian and Josephine. Frank will be very sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his children Celine, Teresa, Philomena, Frances, Philip and Eugene, their mother Teresa, sons-in-law Tayfun, Andrew, Stephen and William, daughter-in-law Vanessa, cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sister Catherine, brothers Bernard, Gene, Arthur and Christopher, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and former comrades in the DF and his faithful dog Murphy.
Funeral Mass was celebrated at the Cathedral of Christ the King on 30 Nov 2024 followed by burial in Ballyglass Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Obituary Sgt Joe Quinn Post 20 IUNVA – 23/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 23 Nov 2024 of Post 20 member, Joseph (Joe) Quinn, Lakepoint, Mullingar (formerly of Dalton Park and Gainstown, Mullingar, Sgt (Retd) 4 FA Regt, long time member and Honorary President of IUNVA Post 20. He passed away peacefully in the company and care of his loving family, following a long illness borne with great strength and courage; pre-deceased by his cherished daughter Rosemary and his parents Joseph and Lizzie. Beloved husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and a wonderful friend, Joe will be forever missed by his wife and best friend Mary, sons Martin and David, daughter Sharon, daughters-in-law Cleona and Rachel, sons-in-law Ollie and Oisín, adored grandchildren Adam, Zoe, Grace, Jack, Emma, Ryan and Oscar, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and his many friends.
Funeral Mass was held on Tuesday 26 Nov 2024 in the Cathedral of Christ the King, Mullingar, followed by burial in Kilronan Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
as síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Obituary Congo Veteran Paul Malone Post 9 IUNVA – 18/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sorrow we inform members of the death on 18 Nov 2024 of Post 9 Athlone member, former Pte Francis Paul Malone, Ard Daire, Ferrybank, Waterford and late of 4 Fd Engr Coy, Custume Bks, Athlone. He passed away aged 82 years, peacefully surrounded by his loving family, at University Hospital Waterford. He was predeceased by his parents Charles and Kathleen, brothers George and Maurice, sister Kathleen and his first wife Nuala. Paul will be sadly missed by his wife Christine, his children Niamh, David, Philip, Tony, Dermot and Helena, Niamh’s fiance Ross, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, brothers Andy, Charlie, Gabriel and Jimmy, sisters Mary and Ann, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Requiem Mass was held on 21 Nov, at The Sacred Heart Church, Ferrybank, after which Paul will be laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery.
Paul completed two tours of duty, with Sp Pl, A Coy 35, Inf Bn and he fought at the siege of Jadotville from 13 to 17 Sep 1961, he served with C Coy, 37 Inf Bn and later in Cyprus.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
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Father Des Campion CF – 16/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 16 Nov 2024 of Father Desmond (Des) Campion SDB CF, Naval Base, Haulbowline, Co Cork and formerly of Brendan Rd, Drimnagh, Dublin. Fr Des passed away peacefully, in the presence of his friends and family and in the wonderful care of the Bon Secours Hospital. He was a beloved son of the late May and James, much loved brother of Declan, Bernard, Miriam and the late Raymond. Deeply regretted by his loving family, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nieces, nephews, his Religious Confrere’s, Bishop Fintan Gavin, Bishop Emeritus Buckley, clergy of the Diocese of Cork and Ross, all his Naval Service family, relatives and a wide circle of friends.
Cork Arrangements: Fr Des will lie in rest in the Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea, Naval Base, Haulbowline on Tuesday 19 Nov from 1500 until Celebration of Vespers at 1900. Concelebrated Requiem Mass will be at 1100 on Wednesday 20 Nov.
Concelebrated Requiem Masswas held on Friday 22 Nov 2024, in the Church of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Mourne Road, Drimnagh followed by burial in Palmerstown Cemetery.
Fr Des was born in Mar 1944 in Drimnagh. When he finished his secondary education at the Salesian School in Ballinakill, Co Laois, he became a novice at the Salesian Novitiate in Warrenstown, Co Meath. He studied philosophy in Beckford in the UK and then went to India where he completed his studies and spent five years teaching and running a technical school. He studied theology in Maynooth and on 7 Dec 1973, was ordained a priest in his home parish of Drimnagh. Fr Des then went to Ballinakill as a teacher and assistant. There followed appointments in Pallaskenry Co Limerick and at the Provincial House at Crumlin. During this time Fr. Des went to Germany to serve as a temporary chaplain to the American Armed Forces. Following his return he held appointments in Finglas, Dublin, and in the Salesian parish in Castletroy, Co Limerick. Having been appointed a Chaplain to the Forces at Sarsfield Bks he served as chaplain with 60 Inf Bn UNIFIL in 1986 – 87. Upon his return he was posted to AAS, Devoy Bks, Naas for six months followed by another six months at Finner Camp, Co Donegal with 28 Inf Bn. He was then appointed to the Naval Service and Spike Island Prison in 1988. He served on four further tours of duty with UNIFIL with 66, 72, 82, and 88 Inf Bns and on five tours with KFOR in Kosovo with 7 Tpt Gp, 28, 29, 31, and 33 Inf Gps.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhílis agus suaimhneas síoraí i measc na naomh dó.
Obituary Timmy Buckley Post 5 IUNVA – 02/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 2 Nov 2024 of Post 5 member Timmy Buckley, Fairfield Sq, Farranree, Cork, he passed away peacefully at home. Husband of Noreen and father to Denis, Ken, Mark, Frank and the late David. Sadly missed by his wife and family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 7 Nov in the Church of the Resurrection, Farranree. Buriel afterwards in St Catherine’s Cemetery,
Timmy was a veteran peacekeeper who served in the Congo, Cyprus and the Lebanon
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Obituary Capt Con Power (Retd) – 03/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 3 Nov 2024 of Capt Cornelius (Con) Power (Retd), Derrypatrick House, Summerhill, Co Meath and late of Fethard-on-Sea,Co Wexford and the Eq Sch, McKee Bks, Dublin. Con passed away peacefully, at Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown after a long illness, surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Margaret, dear father of Robert and Elizabeth and doting grandfather of Emma. Lovingly remembered by his family, daughter-in-law Hannah, sisters & brothers; Ann, Pat, Ted, Mandy, Vonnie, Vivienne, Pierce and Helen, extended family, friends and neighbours.
After he completed his secondary education at Gormanston College he worked on the family farm. He joined the DF in Apr 1973 with 47 Cdt Class. On commissioning in Apr 1973, he was assigned as Riding Officer in the Equitation School. He went on to being one of the world’s best known show jumpers riders, with successes at Aachen, New York and Toronto, while he was the leading rider at the Dublin Horse Show in 1976 and 1979. Con will forever be remembered for being part of the dream team who won the Aga Khan trophy three times in a row, in 1977, 1978 and 1979, famously being the only rider to ride three different horses – Coolronan in 1977, Castlepark in 1978 and Rockbarton in 1979 – along with Eddie Macken, James Kernan and the late Paul Darragh. In 1979 he won the puissance at Aachen in Germany and he, along with Capt John Roche, Eddie Macken and Paul Darragh won the Aachen Nations Cup.
He retired for the Defence Forces in Sep 1979.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday in the Church of the Nativity Moynalvey, Summerhill followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhílis agus suaimhneas síoraí i measc na naomh dó.
Photo credit: The Irish Farmers Journal
Obituary BQMS Jim Domican (Retd) – 02/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 2 Nov 2024 of BQMS James (Jim) Domican (Retd), Mount Carmel, Newbridge, Co Kildare late of the Barracks Service Office Curragh Camp and formerly of Coolagh, Kilmeague and Highfield, Newbridge. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of the 
late Anne. Sadly missed by his loving sons Damien, Niall and James, daughters Catherine and Gillian, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law Patsy and Wayne, daughters-in-law Liz and Anna, brother Tom, sisters Anna and Betty, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Conleth’s Parish, Church, Newbridge, on 5 Nov 2024. Burial afterwards in St Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis
Obituary Former Cpl John Shanahan – 01/11/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 1 Nov 2024 of former Cpl John Shanahan, Liffey View, The Barracks, Newbridge, Co Kildare, formerly O’Higgins Terrace, The Curragh, I Armd Car Sqn and Ord Corps. . John passed away peacefully at Naas Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving wife Marian, son Keith, daughter Kelly, grandchildren Sean, Alexandria, Killian, Emma and Cian, brothers, sisters, extended family, neighbours and friends.
His father, Jack was a Congo veteran who fought with Armd Car Gp, 35 Inf Gp at Jadotville and Elisbethville in 1961. His brother, Gerard was a Sgt with 1 Armd Car Sqn.
Funeral service was held 4 Nov 2024 at Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold’s Cross, Dublin.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé
Obituary Lieut Col Patrick McCann – 29/10/2024
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to report the death of Lieutenant-Colonel Patrick Joseph (Paschal) McCann of 2 The Avenue, Graigavern Lodge, Ballybrittas, County Laois and formerly of Kildare and Kilkenny. Patrick passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, 29th October 2024. Predeceased by his wife Joan (Cogley). Sadly missed by his loving wife Nelly Bolanos Hernández, his daughters Catraoine and Noelle, son Stephen, sons-in-law, Paul and David, daughter-in-law Caroline, his grandchildren Ciarán, Joe, Muirenn, Roisín, Mai, Ethan, and Ellie, his brothers Brendan and Noel, sister Anne, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours, Defence Forces comrades, and friends in Ireland and Costa Rica.
Patrick Joseph (known throughout the Defence Forces as Paschal) McCann was born on 14th October 1941. He enlisted in the Defence Forces as a member of 36 Cadet Class in December 1961 and was commissioned into the Infantry Corps in July 1963. His two brothers also served in the Defence Forces; Colonel Brendan McCann and Commandant Noel McCann.
Paschal served with the GTD Curragh Training Camp. As a Comdt he was a Staff Officer in HQ Curragh Comd and 2 i/c 3 Infantry Battalion. In the rank of Lieut Col, he was OC 30 Infantry Battalion and OC Curragh Comd FCA in Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny. He served overseas with: UNFICYP, UNTSO and in Lebanon as Company Commander, C Company, 53 Inf Bn UNIFIL. He was a military observer with ONUCA – Central America.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 2 Nov 2024 at Saint Brigid’s church in The Curragh followed by a private cremation.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam Dílis
Obituary Lieut Col Michael Tallon (Retd) – 13/10/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 13 Oct 2024 of Lt Col Michael Tallon, Moanfin, Arcadia, Athlone, Co Westmeath, formerly of Griffith Ave, Dublin and late of 6 Inf Bn, 3 Inf Bn and HQ 4 Bde. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family in the exceptional care of the nurses and staff of Moate NursingHome. He was predeceased by his loving wife Anna Tallon (née Spain), daughter Valerie Kenny, brothers Eddie, Ronnie and Tony, sisters Marie and Jenn. Sadly missed by his loving family Michael (Boston, USA), Melissa (Moate), Sandra (Tullamore) and Marise (Kent, UK), much loved brother to Pauline and Irene, his adoring grandchildren Alan, Brian, Jennie, Conor, Leanne, Ciara and Jack. Lovingly remembered by Michael’s companion Elizabeth (Betty) Newman, his son Michael’s partner Joanna, sons-in-law Ray Claffey, Martin Clarke and Martin Gevaux, nephews, nieces and extended family.
He was born in Dublin in Feb 1931 and he enlisted in An Chéad Chat Cois in Galway as a recruit in Jan 1951.He was awarded a cadetship in Dec 1951 and he was commissioned in Nov 1953. He served in Cyprus with C Coy 11 Inf Gp from Sep 1968 to Mar 1969. He served for much of his career in W Comd and as a Comdt he commanded Coys in 28 Inf Bn and in 6 Inf Bn. As a Lieut Col he commanded 3 Inf Bn and 6 Inf Bn. He retired in 1988 in the appointment of EO HQ 4 Bde.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 16 Oct 2024 in St Mary’s Church, Athlone, followed by burial in Coosan Cemetery.
Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam.
Obituary Jack Keegan – Post 1 IUNVA – 04/10/2024
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to report the death on 4 Oct 2024 of John (Jack) Keegan, (Greenhills Dublin and formerly of Cloone, Co. Leitrim and late of the Defence Forces, Collin’s Barracks.
Ppeacefully, surrounded by his loving family at home; beloved husband and best friend of the late Maureen and loving and devoted dad to Mary, Helen, Margaret, John and the late Thomas; John will be forever loved and very sadly missed by his loving family, children, son-in-law Martin, his adored grandchildren Denise, Selina, Leanne, Lauren, Aaron, Dylan, Jack and Rosie, great grandchildren, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbours.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 8th October in the Holy Spirit Church, Greenhills, followed by burial in Bohernabreena Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis
Obituary Joe McCabe – 02/10/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 2 Oct 2024 of Joseph (Joe) McCabe, Norseman Place, Dublin 7, and late of 2 Mot Sqn, Griffith Bks and Castleblayney Mil Post and St Mary’s Hospital Ambulance Service, Phoenix Park. He passed away at St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown after a short illness. He was predeceased by his mother and father, Patty and Vinny. He will be sadly missed by his loving sister Patricia, extended family, comrades, neighbours and his many friends. Funeral Mass was held on Monday 7 Oct 2024 in The Church of the Sacred Heart, Arbour Hill followed by a cremation service at Glasnevin Crematorium.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis
Obituary Comdt Andrew Brady (Retd) – 24/09/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 24 Sep 2024 of Comdt Andrew Brady (Retd) , The Willows, Allenwood, County Kildare and formerly of Tully West, Kildare Town on Tuesday, 24th September 2024. Sadly missed by his devoted wife Captain Deirdre Carbery (Retd), his adored daughter Ella, his heartbroken parents Esther and Jim, brother Conor, sister Carol, mother and father in law Majella and Colonel Declan Carbery (Retd), sister in law, brothers in law, his much loved nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, neighbours, friends, work colleagues and Defence Forces family.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on Monday 30 Sep 2024 at The Carmelites Church, Kildare Town, with burial afterwards in S. Corbans cemetery, Naas.
He joined the DF as a Cdt in Oct 2001 and was commissioned in Jul 2003. He served with 12 Inf Bn in Kickham Bks, Clonmel. The MP Sch, in the Office of the Dir MPC, in J2 Br and in the Ord Sch. His overseas service included 98 Inf Bn Chad, 2008-2009; UNIFIL 2012; Somalia 2013; EUTM Mali, 2017-2018 and MINUSMA in Mali 2020-2021. He retired from the Defence Forces in April 2022.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Obituary Cpl William Keane (Retd) – 22/09/2024
From PRO IUNVA
W
ith sadness we inform members of the death on Sunday 22 Sep 2024 of Cpl William Keane (Retd)), Hawthorne Crescent Mullingar, Co Westmeath, formerly of Tuam, Co Galway and late of 6 Inf Bn and 4 FA Regt and a long-time member of ONE.
He served as a peacekeeper in the Congo and in Cyprus, he served as a Pte with A Coy 35 Inf Bn from Jun to Dec 1961 when he fought at Jadotville in Sep 1961, his secondtour was with HQ Coy 2 Inf Gp Nov 1963 to May 1964, he served as Cpl with 6 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Apr to Oct 1966.
He passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully surrounded by his loving family, at the Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar; pre-deceased by his parents Richard and Nora, siblings Mary, Christy and Tony. Billy will be sadly missed by his beloved wife Mary (Molly), Michaela, Jay, Logan and Brody, survived by his sisters Bridie, Eileen, Bernie and Patsy, brothers Sonny, PJ, Oliver and Vincent, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, good friends, neighbours and all his comrades.
Funeral Mass was held on Friday on 27 Sep 2024 at the Cathedral of Christ the King, Mullingar, followed by burial in St Michael’s Cemetery, Castletown-Geoghegan.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Obituary Tpr Tom Breen (Retd) – 21/09/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 21 Sep 2024 of Tpr Thomas (Tom) Breen (Red), 1247 St Evins Park,Monasterevin, Co Kildare and late of 1 Tk Sqn and Dep Cav, Plunktt Bks, Curragh Camp. He was pre deceased by his parents Patrick and Maura, brothers Tony and John. Beloved husband of Marie and much loved father of Kenneth and Sharon. Deeply regretted by his loving family, son in law Niall, daughter in law Lorraine, grandchildren Grace, Rosie and Eoin, brother Noel, sisters Chrissie (Carroll) & Marion, brother in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Requiem mass was celebrated on Wednesday25 Sep 2024 at St Peter & Paul’s Church with interment afterwards in St Evin’s Cemetery, Monasterevin.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Obituary Cpl Terry Smyth – 06/09/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 6 Sep 2024 of Cpl Terry Smyth, Orchard Pk, Curragh Camp Co Kildare and the Ord Corps. He joined the DF in 2011 and trained at 5 Inf Bn, he served with 7 Inf Bn, 1 MEC, Mil Col and DFSPC and overseas with UNIFIL and UNDOF.
He will be sadly missed by his loving partner Stacey, daughter Regan, son Fallon, parents Terry and Audrey, brothers Eoin and Connor, sister in law Grainne, Connor’s partner Lynda, Stacey’s parents Ann and Jim and the Pender family, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, friends and Army comrades.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St St Brigid’s Garrison Church, The Curragh on 09 Sep 2024, with Cremation afterwards in Mount Jerome Crematorium.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis
Obituary George Sweeney – 05/09/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 5 Sep 2024 of George Sweeney, Lucan, Co Dublin and formerly 1 Armd Car Sqn, Dep Cav and ARW, Defence Forces, Curragh Camp. George passed away peacefully in the loving care of the staff at Ryevale Nursing Home, Leixlip. Beloved husband of Valerie, dear stepfather of Fiona and a cherished step grandfather of Louise, Ruth, Kate and Rebecca. Sadly, missed by his family, son-in-law Jim, mother-in-law Maureen, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, neighbours, and Army Colleagues.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 7 Sep in the Church of St Charles Borromeo, Confey, followed by cremation in Mount Jerome Crematorium (Victorian Chapel)
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Death of Veteran Claire Gardiner – 23/08/2024
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to inform of the tragic death of Claire Gardiner on 23 Aug 2024 formerly of Elm Park, Clonmel. Predeceased by her father Noel, brother Conor and recently her mother Helen. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her family, son Leon, brother Keith, sisters Noelle and Marianne, niece Hazel, nephew Nathan, aunts, uncles, extended family and her many friends and comrades.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 28 Aug 2024 St.Oliver’s Church, followed by interment in St.Patrick’s cemetery.
Claire enlisted in the Defence Forces in July 1998, she completed recruit training in Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick and was posted to Kickham Barracks, Clonmel. She served overseas with 86 Inf Bn UNIFIL.
go mbeannaí sí faoi shíocháin
Obituary Comdt Richard Irwin (Retd) – 16/08/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 16 Aug 2024 of Comdt Richard (Dick) Irwin (Retd), Glounthaune, Ballymacoda, Co.Cork and Rathcoole, Co Dublin. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and in the excellent care of the staff at Marymount Hospice. Beloved husband of Margaret, loving father of Helen, Richard, David, Patrick, Edmond and Derek. Sadly missed by his loving wife and family, son-in-law James, daughters-in-law Bernie, Caroline, Julie and Karin, his adored grandchildren, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and comrades.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 20 Aug in the Sacred Heart Church, Glounthaune. Funeral afterwards to St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Little Island.
He joined the DF as a recruit in Feb 1952 and he served in 4 Inf Bn Collins Bks Cork. He served overseas with B Coy 32 Inf Bn in the Congo from Jul 1960 to Jan 1961 and with 3 Inf Gp in Cyprus from Jul 1964 to Jan 1965. He was selected as a student on 2 Pot Offrs Course and on commissioning in Dec 1970 he was assigned to the S&T Corps in Dublin. He later served at HQ E Comd and returned to Cork before he retired from the DF.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó
Obituary Pte Ross Mulligan – 10/08/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 10 Aug 2024 of Pte Ross Mulligan late of Kilbarrack, Dublin, 1 Mech Inf Coy, 7 Inf Bn and a member of The DD44 Motorcycle Club, tragically following an accident. He will be forever loved and sadly missed by his heartbroken mam Tracey, dad Pat, step dad Terry, brother Jamie, grandad Christy, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, a wide circle of friends, his comrades in the 1 Mech Inf Coy and Óglaigh na hEireann.
Funeral mass was celebrated on 16 Aug 2024 in the Church of the Holy Child, Larkhill, Whitehall followed by cremation in Dardistown Crematorium.
Ross served with 67 Inf Gp UNDOF in 2023.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam
Obituary Capt Aidan O’Leary (Retd) – 06/08/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on Tuesday 6 Aug 2024 of Capt Aidan O’Leary (Retd) aged 59, Galway, formerly of Beaumont, Dublin and the World Health Organisation. He died suddenly while he was on holiday surrounded by his heartbroken family in Portugal. Deeply mourned and loved by his heartbroken wife Karen, and children, Darragh and Eimear, by his mother Pauline, sister Mary-Liz, brothers Eoin and Art, brothers in-law Colm, Terry and Brad, sisters-in-law Martina, Aideen, Sadhbh and Emer, nieces and nephews Finbarr, Niamh, Ailbhe, Muireann, Orla, Sorcha, Siofra, Rory, Orna, Maeve, Caoilinn and Ian, relatives, neighbours, DF and UN colleagues and friends. House private please.
He joined the DF as a member of 60 Cdt Class in Nov 1983. On commissioning in Mar 1985, he was assigned to the 1 Fd S&T Coy in Collins Bks Cork. In 1988 he was transferred to 2 Grn S&T Coy McKee Bks Dublin. He served in DFHQ in Planning and Research Sec and in the Strategic Planning Office from July 1992. He completed two tours of peacekeeping duty in Lebanon with 68 Inf Bn from Nov 1990 to Apr 1991 and with 82 Inf Bn from Nov 1997 to Apr 1998, he was an observer with the European Union Monitoring Mission (EUMM) in the former Yugoslavia during 1994 – 95 for six months. After he retired from the DF in 2000, he was Head of Finance for the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in Bosnia and Herzegovina for two years and then Head of Administration to August 2006. He joined the UN and he worked in senior appointments with a number of United Nations agencies: the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNWRA), the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). He served in challenging conflict areas including Afghanistan, Bosnia Herzegovina, Gaza, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, Pakistan and Yemen. At the time of his death he was working as the Director of the Department of Polio Eradication at the World Health Organisation Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland
Requiem Mass was held at the Church of St. John the Apostle, Knocknacarra on 15 Aug 2024 and afterwards Aidan was laid to rest in Rahoon Cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dhílis agus suaimhneas síoraí i measc na naomh dó.
Obituary Former Coy Sgt John Manning, Cork – 03/08/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members on 3 Aug 2024 of the death of former Coy Sgt John Manning, Silverheights, Mayfield, Cork and late of Area Records, Collins Bks Cork. He passed away peacefully, in the presence of his loving family at the Mercy University Hospital, loving husband of Christina, dear father of Sean, Caitríona, Siobhán and Fionnuala, brother of Nancy, Maureen, Philomena, Thomas, Val and the late David and Finbarr. Sadly missed by his loving wife and family, son-in-law Anthony, daughter-in-law Christina, Siobhán’s partner Alan, grandchildren Aine, Clodagh, Cliona, Ciara, Dara and Cillian, nephews, nieces, relatives and his many friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on Monday 5 Aug 2024 in the Church of Our Lady Crowned, Mayfield with burial afterwards in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Blackrock.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Obituary Brig Gen Gerry McNamara (Retd) – 02/08/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 2 Aug 2024 of Brig Gen Gerard (Gerry) McNamara (Retd), Knocknacarra and formerly of Shantalla Place, Galway. He was predeceased by his parents John and Patricia and siblings Seán and Mary. Gerry died at Galway University Hospital after an illness bravely borne and with his family by his side. Deeply loved and mourned by his wife Rita; sons and daughters David, Shane, Emer and Maeve and their partners Mary, Shirley and Neil. Very sadly missed by his much-loved grandsons Josh, Jake, James, Zach, Noah and Lucas and granddaughters Lily, Ellie-Mae and Leah. Gerry will be always fondly remembered by his brother-in-law Francie and his wife Mary Pillion, nieces Fiona, Yvonne and Emma, nephews Ian and Gerard, relatives and DF comrades.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 6 Aug in the Church of the Sacred Heart and he was laid to rest after in Rahoon cemetery.
Gen McNamara joined the DF as a member of 38 Cdt Class in Oct 1963 and he was commissioned in Sep 1965. He spent his early career in the Air Corps and in W Comd and he later served in the Mil Col and in DFHQ in Pers Sec and as D Ops. On promotion to the rank of Brig Gen in Nov 2003, he was appointed as GOC 2 E Bde.
He served as a peacekeeper in Cyprus, the Middle East, Lebanon and on the Iran / Iraq border. He served with 12 Inf Gp UNFICYP in 1969, with UNTSO from 1979 to 1981, in Lebanon as Coy Comd, C Coy 52 Inf Bn from Nov 1982 to Apr 1983 and with 59 Inf Bn in 1986. He served as a military observer with the United Nations Iran-Iraq Military Observer Group (UNIIMOG) in 1989 to 1990. He was CO 79 Inf Bn from May to Oct 1996.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Obituary Former RSM Patrick Durney Med Corps – 31/07/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 31 Jul 2024 of former RSM Patrick (Paddy) Durney, Durney, Pairc Mhuire, Newbridge, Co Kildare. Former RSM St Bricins Mil Hospital, Dublin. He died suddenly at his home. He was predeceased by his loving wife Joan & son Andrew. Sadly missed by his loving sons David & Paul, his loving partner Breda, daughters-inlaw, his seven grandchildren, brother Frankie, sisters Marie, Phyllis & Betty, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours & friends.
Funeral Mass was ccelebrated on 06 August 2024 at Cill Mhuire Church, Ballymany, Newbridgewith burial afterwards to St Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Obituary Comdt Traolach Sweeney (Retd) – 09/07/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members following a road traffic accident on 11 Jul 2024 of Comdt Traolach Sweeney (Retd), Caherdaniel Co Kerry and Newbridge Co Kildare.
Survived by his wife Ena Sweeney, his daughter Aislinn, his son Peter, son-in-law Martin, daughter-in-law Divya, grandchildren Apolline and Crispin, his brothers Pádraig and Domhnall, brother-in-law Michael, sisters-in-law Breda and Ann-Maire, nephews and nieces, David, Richard, Cliona, Cáit, Éanna, Fionntán, James, Beatrice, cousins, relatives and friends. Predeceased by his parents, Domhnall and Phil and sister-in-law Cora.
Funeral Mass was celebrated in St Crohan’s Church, Caherdaniel on Friday19 July 2024, with burial afterwards in Derrynane Abbey Island Cemetery.
He joined the DF as a Cdt with 45 Cdt Class in Oct 1970 and he was commissioned in Sep 1972 and he was posted to 3 Inf Bn. He later served in Inf Sch, ARW, 12 Inf Bn and 15 Inf Bn FCA. He completed two tours of duty with UNIFIL, with C Coy, 45 Inf Bn and with C Coy, 56 Inf Bn.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Obituary Comdt Barry Studdert (Retd) – 09/07/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 9 Jul 2024 of Comdt Finbarr (Barry) Studdert, Newbridge, Co Kildare and Wilton, Cork City. He was predeceased by his parents Bridie and Martin, sister Ann (Gowing) and brother Michael. Sadly, missed by his loving wife Frances, children Niamh, Brian, Órla, Úna, Emer, Aisling and Barry Junior, sons-in-law Mark, Mehdi, David & Jhoe, daughter-in-law Paula, brother Dick, sister Joan, grandchildren Maria, Cassie, Ben, Rosie, Conor, Lucy, Ruby, Tommy, Léa & Amelie, great-grandchildren Lily, Alfie & Bobby, sisters-in-law Mary and Carmel, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives, comrades and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated at St Brigid’s Garrison Church, The Curragh, on Friday 12 July 2024 Funeral afterwards to Mount Jerome Crematorium.
Comdt Studdert enlisted as a Cdt in Jan 1958 and, when he was commissioned in Jan 1960, he was posted to 6 Inf Bn. He served later in the Curragh as an instructor in the Cdt Sch and in the Inf Sch, he served with 3 Inf BnObituary and in HQ C Comd. After he retired he was Civil Defence Officer for the Dublin region.
He served in the Congo as Pl Comd, 2 Inf Gp in 1963 – 64, with UNTSO in 1973 and he was seconded to UNEF 2 in the Sinai. He was DCO 57 Inf Bn UNIFIL in 1985.
Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam
Death of Congo Veteran Congo Veteran Former Tpr Dixie Browne – 04/07/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 4 Jul 2024 of former Tpr Michael (Dixie) Browne, Piercetown, Newbridge, Co Kildare and 1 Armd Car Sqn, Plunkett Bks Curragh Camp/4 Mot Sqn. He passed away peacefully, at Rose Lodge Nursing Home, Killucan. Father of the late Sandra and Grandfather of the late Maria. Sadly missed by his loving daughters Tara and Angelique, grandchildren Cathy, Alan, Joe, Saoirse, Sean, Taylor, Rosie, Mikey, Joey, Jerome, Corey, Riley, Levi and Madison, great grandchildren Charlie, Lauren, Noah, Sandy and Joseph, brothers Tom, Harry and Maurice, brothers and sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
He served with 32 Inf Bn from Jul 1960 to Jan 1961 and his parent unit at that time was 1 Armd Car Sqn.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 06/07/2024 to arrive at St. Conleth’s Parish Church, Newbridge, with burial afterwards in St Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis
Death of Congo Veteran Ex Sgt Frank McManus – 26/06/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 26 Jun 2024 of retired Sgt Francis (Frank) McManus. He was from Garavogue, Sligo and he lived at Altown, Garrycastle, Athlone, Co Westmeath. He passed away peacefully in the tender care of the nurses and staff of Retreat Nursing Home. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Eileen and his brothers and sisters. Sadly missed by his loving daughter Sharon (Sheerin) and Gillian (White), son Jason, brother Stephen and sister Rose, son-in-law Michael, grandchildren Lauryn, Flynn, Jack and Ellie, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Requiem Masswas held in St. Mary’s Church on 28/06/2024 followed by burial afterwards in Coosan Cemetery.
Frank served two tours of duty in the Congo, as a Pte, he was with A Coy 35 Inf Bn and he fought at Jadotville in the Congo in Sep 1961. He later served as a Cpl with 37 Inf Bn. He completed two tours of duty with UNFICYP in Cyprus with 40 Inf Bn in 1964 and with 22 Inf Gp in 1972. His parent unit was 4 Grn Ord Coy.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Death of Retired Sgmn Paul Heavey – 25/06/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 25 Jun 2024 of retired Sgmn Paul Heavey, formerly of Rathangan and the Curragh Camp.he passed away peacefully at Naas Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving wife Christine, children Paula, Michelle, Samantha, Elizabeth and Edward, grandchildren Ellie, Conor, Abbie, Kyle, Brooke, Jack, Charlie, Shakira and Kaleb, sons in law John Paul and Edmond, brothers, brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was held on 27/06/2024 at Cill Mhuire Church, Newbridge, for Requiem Mass. Burial afterwards in St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam
Death of Congo Veteran Tommy Campbell – 12/06/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 12 Jun 2024 of Thomas (Tommy) Campbell, Bianconi Drive, Clonmel and formerly Cormackstown, Thurles, Co Tipperary and 12 Inf Bn Kickham Bks. He passed away peacefully at home in the presence of his loving family. He is pre-deceased by his first wife Breda, grandsons Stephen and Philip and his sons-in-law P.J., David, Jimmy and Tom. He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Eileen, sons Mocko, Johnny, Tommy and Tony, daughters Breda, Nancy, Tracy, Gillian, Kellyanne, Lizanne and Aoife, brother Joe, sister Patricia, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.
He served in the Congo with B Coy, 33 Inf Bn from Aug 1960 to Jan 1961.
Funeral Mass was held on Saturday in St. Oliver’s Church on 15 June 2024 with burial immediately afterwards in St Patrick’s Cemetery Clonmel.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam Dílis
Death of Ex Coy Sgt Paul Hanley – 04/06/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 4 Jun 2024 of Coy Sgt Paul Hanley Retd, the Curragh Camp, he passed away peacefully at Tallaght Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving wife Josephine, daughter Michelle, sons Declan and Ian, son-in-law Peter, daughter-in-law Cassandra and Ian’s partner Shauna, grandchildren Caolan, Sean, Alex, Carly, Emily and Bonnie, brothers Noel and Martin, farther-in-law Jock, mother-in-law May, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was held at St. Brigid’s Church The Curragh on 07 June 2024, with burial afterwards in St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Death of Seamus Harris 25/05/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 25 May 2024 of Seamus (Budsy) Harris, late of Cregg Lawns and formerly of Mountain View Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary and 12 Inf Bn, Kickham Bks, Clonmel.
He served in the Congo with C Coy 33 Inf Bn from Aug 1960 to Jan 1961 and his home unit at the time was GTD.
On Tuesday, 21 May 2024, Seamus was presented with his Congo Certificate of Appreciation by Tony Marshall, Post 24.
Seamus passed away surrounded by his family. Deeply regretted by his loving children, brothers, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Nicholas’ Church, Carrick- on-Suir on 28 May followed by burial afterwards in Faugheen Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Death of James Feighery 23/05/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 23 May 2024 of James Feighery, Busherstown, Dunkerrin, Birr, Co Offaly and formerly of Wingfield, Ballingarry, Co Tipperary. Late of the 4 Inf Bn, he completed two tours of duty as a peacekeeper in Cyprus with B Coy 6 Inf Gp from Apr to Oct 1966 and with B Coy 9 Inf Gp from Sep 1967 to Mar 1968.
James passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at Tullamore Midland Regional Hospital. He was pre-deceased by his loving and cherished wife Mairéad and his parents Tom and Annie. Deeply regretted and sadly missed by his loving son Warren and his fiancée Thérèse, his beloved grandchildren Chloë, Ella, Ruby and Heidi, his sister Anne, his brothers Pat and Liam, his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, relatives, good neighbours and friends.
Concelebrated funeral Mass on 27 May 2024 in St Mary’s Church, Shinrone followed by burial afterwards in Kilcomin Cemetery, Shinrone. Family flowers only, please. Donations in lieu, if desired, to the Laura Lynn Foundation and the Friends of Tullamore Hospital.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé
Post 25 Member Ex Sqn Sgt Colin O’Callaghan 20/05/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness, we inform members of the death on 20 May 2024 of former Sqn Sgt Colin O’Callaghan, a member of Post 25 Fermoy, late of 1 Tk Sqn, Dep Cav, 1 Armd Car Sqn Plunkett Bks, Curragh Camp, Co. Kildare and Rossaghroe, Buttevant, Co Cork.
Colin served two tours of duty in the Congo, with C Coy 36 Inf Bn from Nov 1961 to May 1962 and with Armd Car Gp 2 Inf Gp from Oct 1963 to May 1964; three tours of duty in Cyprus with the Armd Car Gps of 4 Inf Gp from Jan to Jul 1965, 10 Inf Gp from Feb to Sep 1968 and 20 Inf GP from Apr to Nov 1971.
Brother of the late Patrick and Bridgid Horgan, Colin passed away peacefully at home after a long illness bravely borne with his wife Eileen by his side. Sadly missed but fondly remembered by his loving wife Eileen (nee Fogarty), his adored daughter Claire and her partner Michel, his cherished grandsons; Stefan, Liam and Kieran, brothers-in-law; Michael, John and Joseph Fogarty and Frances O’ Sullivan, sisters-in-law; Margaret O’ Sullivan, Bernadette Fogarty and Kathleen O’ Callaghan, nieces, nephews, relatives, his cousin and close friend Michael Deady, his close friend Fergus, kind neighbours, ex army colleagues and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Doneraile on 23 May 2024. with burial immediately afterwards in Auglish cemetery Doneraile.
Family Flowers only please.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Post 25 Member Ex Sgt Vinny Creed 13/05/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 13 May 2024 of Sgt Vincent Creed (Retd), Fermoy, Co Cork and late of 1 Cav Sqn. Vincent passed away peacefully in the presence of his loving family and in the exceptional care of the staff at Cork University Hospital. Beloved husband of May (nee Dolan) and dear father of Aidan, Alan and Colm, much-loved Granpa of Kate, Thomas, Odhran and Áine, brother of the late John, Mike, Oliver, Brendan and Donie. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, family, brother Redmond, daughters-inlaw Elizabeth and Orla, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Reception into St. Patrick’s Church, Fermoy Thursday for Requiem Mass on 16 May 2024. Cremation Service at the Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy ,afterwards.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Post 3 Member Jim Redmond 10/05/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 10 May 2024 of Post 3 member James (Jim) Redmond Knockina, The Rock, Gorey, Co Wexford, a Congo veteran and late of 3 Inf Bn. Beloved husband of the late Sadie and loving father of Geraldine, Angela, Charlie, Liam, Shay, Paddy and the late Jenny, brother of Nell and the late Charlie, Jack, Joe, Mary, Julia, Bud, Paddy and Jim. Deeply regretted by his sons, daughters, sister, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives, neighbours and many friends.
Funeral Mass was held at St Michael’s Church, Gorey followed by Burial in St Michael’s Cemetery Gorey.
He served with C Coy, 33 Inf Bn in the Congo from Aug 1960 to Jan 1961.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Post 25 Member Lieut Col Ken Kelly (Retd) 08/05/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 8 May 2024 of Lt Col Ken Kelly (Retd) a member of Post 25, Youghal Co Cork and Portlaoise, Co Laois. Sadly missed by his loving partner Brigid (Flavin), his hildren Sinead and Alan, grandchildren Aoife, Imogen, Camille, and Christian, daughterin-law Lara, son-in-law Paul, Brigid’s extended family, brothers and sisters Catherine, Evelyn and her husband Gay, Tom and his wife Valerie, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends. Rest in Peace Ken’s family would like to thank the Irish Cancer Society and Marymount Home team for the wonderful care shown to Ken, also special thanks to Dr McEnroe and Staff, Youghal.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Holy Family Church, Youghal, Co Cork, followed by a private Cremation.
Ken enlisted in the DF as a Cdt in Dec and he was assigned as a 2/Lieut to 1 Tk Sqn in Jul 1963. Three months after commissioning, he deployed to the Congo with 2 Inf Gp in Oct 1963 until May 1964. He served on two tours of duty with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus UNFICYP, with the Armd Car Gp, 8 Inf Gp from Mar to Sep 1967 and with the Armd Car Gp, 13 Inf Group from Sep 1969 to Apr 1970. He deployed with the first unit to serve with UNIFIL as Recce Gp Comd 43 Inf Bn from Jun to Dec 1978, later he was Senior Liaison Officer at UNIFIL HQ from Oct 1998 to Nov 1999, he completed a two-year tour as an unarmed military observer in the Middle East from Jan 1986 to Jan 1988, he served with the United Nations Observer Group in Central America from Dec 1990 to Apr 1991. He served with the European Community Monitoring Mission in the Balkans for one year in 1995. He was the Irish Contingent Commander with the Stabilisation Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina in Bosnia and Herzegovina (SFOR) from Jul 2000 to Jan 2001.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Death of Former Chaplain Fr. Willie Walsh 28/04/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 28 Apr 2024 of Fr Willie Walsh, Kilmeedy Limerick and a former DF Chaplain at Sarsfield Bks, Limerick. He passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff of Carrigoran House, Newmarket-on- Fergus. He was a former Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Ennis Road, Limerick and Rockhill, Bruree, Co Limerick. Predeceased by his Parents William and Mary and his sister Geraldine (Farrell). Sadly missed by his loving brothers Pat, Tom and John, his sisters Breda (Carroll) and Kay, sisters-in-law Breda, Laura and Marie, brothers-in-law Kevin and Donal, nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, Bishop Brendan Leahy, Priests of the Diocese, extended family, and DF comrades.
Reposing at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Ennis Road on Wednesday 1st May from 1700 to 1900. Requiem Mass will take place on Thursday 2nd May 2024 at 14:30 followed by burial in Relig Mhuire Cemetery, Croom. Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.
Fr Walsh served overseas with a number of UNIFIL units including 77 Inf Bn from Apr to Oct 1995.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Post 1 Member -Pat O’Reilly 17/04/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 17 April 2024 of Post 1 member, Patrick (Pat) O’Reilly, Dublin 15 and formerly of Capel St., Dublin 1 and Inchicore, Dublin 8.
Pat passed away peacefully but suddenly in the loving care of the staff at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown. He was the beloved husband of Lorraine and dear father of Robert and Philip; sadly missed by his loving family, sister, father-in-law, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and his dog Odie.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on Monday morning 22 April 2024 to St Brigid’s Church, Blanchardstown, followed by burial in Mount Jerome Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Post 1 Member – Retired RSM Cyril Houlihan 15/04/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 15 Apr 2024 of Post 1 member, retired RSM Cyril Houlihan, Huntstown, Dublin 15 and formerly of The Curragh Camp, Co Kildare. Cyril passed away peacefully in the loving care of the staff at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown. He was the beloved husband of the late Bernie; sadly missed by his loving sons Damien, David and Darren, daughter Anna, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, all his friends in the Weavers P & P Club, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 18 April 2024 at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Huntstown, followed by burial in Mulhuddart Cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Obituary Ex Sgt Patrick Duffy 10/04/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 10 Apr 2024 of retired Sgt Patrick Duffy, College Pk, Newbridge, Co Kildare, formerly McDermott Terrace, The Curragh. Peacefully, at Naas Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Brother of the late Bobby, Helen, Arthur, Francis, Vincent and Elizabeth. Sadly missed by his loving wife Mary, daughter Jacqueline, sons Patrick and Jason, son in law Eddie, daughters in law Lorraine and Olivia, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Requiem mass was celebrated on Sat 13 April 2024 at St. Conleth’s Parish Church, Newbridge, with burial afterwards in St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Patrick served with MP Corps in the Curragh. His brother was the late Cpl Vincent Duffy who was killed in a road traffic accident in Lebanon on 18 Oct 1980 while serving with 47 Inf Bn.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó
Obituary Retired Sgt Michael Jervis 06/04/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 6 Apr 2024 of retired Sgt Michael Carmen (Scarrow) Jervis, Lakeside Park, Newbridge, Co Kildare and late of 1 Armd Car Sqn, Plunkett Bks, Curragh Camp. He passed away suddenly, at home. He was the son of the late John and Mary, brother of the late Meisa. Sadly missed by his loving wife Patricia, sons James, Raymond, Richard and Michael Jnr, daughters Cheryl and Lynsey, his 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, sons in law, daughters in law, brothers, sisters, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, the O’Rourke family, relatives, neighbours and comrades.
Removal was on Friday 12 April 2024 to tot St. Conleth’s Parish Church, Newbridge, for requiem Mass – Burial afterwards in St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Post 1 Member – Ex CQMS Ali Robert 31/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform our members of the death on 31 Mar 2024 of Post 1 member, former CQMS Ali (Aloysious) Robert. St. Michan’s House, Dublin 7, late of Alor Setar, Kedah, Malaysia. He servid in 2 E Bde HQ and in 5 Inf Bn. He served overseas in Lebanon with 47 Inf Bn and at UNIFIL HQ with 4, 11 and 23 Irish Components.
He will be sadly missed by his loving partner Joan, son Kevin, daughter Karina, (also remembering his late daughter Jackie and his late son Karl), brothers and sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and colleagues.
Ali’s Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday 10 April 2024, in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Arbour Hill followed by a cremation service at Glasnevin Crematorium Chapel.
Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam.
Post 1 Member – Martin Homan 29/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 29 Mar 2024 of Post 1 member Martin Homan, Balreask Village, Navan, Co Meath and formerly Clones, Co Monaghan and Dublin, late of 5 Inf Bn, 29 Inf Bn and 27 Inf. He passed away suddenly at his residence.
He was predeceased by his parents John and Mary (Mayo). He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Colette, his beloved daughter Ameerah, sons Joseph (Joey) and Martin Jr, grandchildren Ríoghnach, Emma, Caoimhe, Lucas, Jake, Franklyn, Darragh, brothers Anthony, Paul, Andrew and Nigel, sisters, Anna, Sandra and Lorraine, mother in law Ann, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, Army colleagues, work colleagues, neighbours, relatives and friends.
Funeral mass was held at The Church Of The Sacred Heart Arbour Hill, Stoneybatter, Dublin 7 on Friday 5th April 2024. Resomation afterwards in Pure Reflections Resomarium,
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Post 9 Member – Ex Coy Sgt Geoffrey Cuffe 26/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
We regretfully report the death of Post 9 member, Geoffrey Cuffe.
Geoff a former President of Post 9, was the CS Instructor CTD Western Command.
He was also one of the Heroes of of Jadoville 35 Inf Bn Congo.
Peacefully in his 90th year at Portiuncula University Hospital on Tuesday 26th March 2024.
Predeceased by his beloved wife, Sarah and brother Henry. Very sadly missed by his daughter Jean and sons, Fr Liam and Geoffrey, brother John Joe, grandchildren Ashley, Robert, Harry and Matthew and daughter in law Serena, the Acton’s, nephews, nieces, in laws, relatives and many friends.
Requiem Mass was held in St. Mary’s Church on Monday, 1st April, at 10:30am followed by burial in Coosan Cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam
Post 1 IUNVA – John Carthy, 25/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 25 Mar 2024 of John Carthy late of Priory Park, Johnstown, Navan, Meath / Tullow, Carlow, Formerly Killinure, Tullow, Co Carlow
Peacefully, in Millbury Nursing Home, Navan, on 25 March 2024.
Sadly missed by his wife Ann, daughters Annette and Trina, sons Mark and Jonathan, grandchildren Sean, Alex, Abigail, Jasmine, Indie, Aaron, Amber, Atlanta, Rhys, Lea and Darcy, great-grandchildren Gia, Lily and Mia, sons-in-law Stephen and Glenn, daughter-in-law Ashley, brother Mick, sisters Lily, Ann and Phyllis, sister-in-law Betty, brother-in-law Cathal, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Funeral Liturgy on 28 March in St. Mary Church, Balllyconnel, Co. Wicklow with burial afterwards in St. Finian’s Church, Kilquiggan
Rest in Peace
Death Comd Derek Gaynor (Retd), 17/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 17 Mar 2024 of Comd Derek Gaynor (Retd) late of the Sigs Corps and Naas, Co Kildare at Naas General Hospital.
Beloved husband of Betty, loving dad of Lynn, Andrew and Stephen and adored brother of the late Paul. Derek will be sadly missed by his loving wife and children, grandchildren Hannah, Tom, Aoife and John, daughters-in-law, son-in-law, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, extended family and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of The Irish Martyrs, Ballycane, Naas and afterwards to Newlands Cross Crematorium.
He enlisted in the Defence Forces in Oct 1970 as a member of 45 Cadet Class. He was commissioned in Sep 1972 into the Signal Corps and was posted to 1 Fd Sigs Coy Cork. He later served in Dep Sigs, his last posting was DFHQ Sigs Coy and he retired in 1998.
He served with the first DF unit in UNIFIL, as Sigs Offr with 43 Inf Bn in 1978, he was Chief Signals Officer at UNIFIL HQ in 1996. He served as a military observer on two tours of duty: firstly with the United Nations Observer Group in Central America (ONUCA) during the period December 1989 to December 1990; and then with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) from September 1993 to April 1995.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé
Post 6 Member – Billy McGrath, 15/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform our members of the death on 15 Mar 2024 of William McGrath, a member of Post 6, a veteran peacekeeper who served in the Congo, Cyprus, the Sinai and Lebanon, late of Sarsfield Avenue, Garryowen, Limerick and late of Nenagh, 12 Inf Bn Sarsfield Barracks Limerick, and ONE. William passed away peacefully at Milford Care Centre, surrounded by his loving family. Pre-deceased by his wife Peggy, daughter Jacqueline, son Liam, granddaughter Marguerite, brothers and sisters. Very deeply regretted by his son James, daughter Mary, son-in-law Gerry, grandchildren, great-grandchild Leah, nieces and nephews, other relatives neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was held at St. John’s Cathedral, Cathedral Place, followed by burial in Mount St Lawrence (Extension) Cemetery on 20 March 2024.
He served with B Coy, 37 Inf Bn ONUC from May to Nov 1962, with HQ Coy, 8 Inf Gp UNFICYP from Mar to Oct 1967 and with A Coy, 25 Inf Gp UNFICYP 7 UNEF 2 from Oct 1973 to May 1974.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Post 15 Member – Derek Loughlin, 28/02/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With deep sadness we inform our members of the death on 4 Mar 2024 of a member of Post 15 Cavan, Derek Loughlin, Ardkill Place, Ballinagh and Swellan, Cavan. Derek passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving family Justin, Barry, Shane, Kelly, Grace, Angelo, Ava and Zoe, brothers Dominic, Richard and Ian, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, grandchildren, relatives and many friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Cathedral of SS Patrick and Felim, Cavan followed by cremation at Lakelands Crematorium, Dublin Road, Cavan.
Derek served for twenty eight years in the DF and he completed three tours of duty with UNIFIL.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Col Seán Quilty (Retd), 03/03/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform our members of the death on 3 Mar 2024 of Col Seán Quilty (Retd), Retreat Pk, Athlone and formerly of Croom, Co Limerick. He passed away peacefully and he is sadly missed by his loving wife Connie, daughter Deirdre, sons John, Michael, Conor, Brian and Francis, brothers Donie, Bobby, Patsy, Tom and Martin, sisters Shelagh and Carmel, grandchildren David, Luke, Jack, Gavin, Anna, Trudy, Sarah, Faye, Ciara and Dara, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, in-laws, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives and many friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on Thursday 7 Mar in St Anthony’s Franciscan Church, Athlone followed by burial afterwards in Coosan Cemetery.
He was born on 31 Jul 1939 in Co Limerick. He enlisted in the DF on 23 Jan 1958 as a member of 32 Cdt Class. He was commissioned in Jan 1960 and he was appointed to 6 Inf Bn, in Athlone. He filled a number of appointments with the unit including OC. He also served with 16 Inf Bn FCA and with MPC, he was OC ECIF and his last appointment was EO & 2 I/C W Comd.
As a Lieut, he served in the Congo as a Pl Comd with C Coy, 37 Inf Bn from May to Nov 1962. He also served with the United Nations India-Pakistan Observation Mission UNIPOM, and twice with the United Nations Good Offices Mission in Afghanistan and Pakistan UNGOMAP.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Post 2 Member – Tadgh Quinn, 28/02/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With deep sadness we inform our members of the passing on 28 Feb 2024 of Timothy (Tadgh) Quinn, a member of Post 2 Listowel, Co Kerry. Tadhg lived at Purt Yard, Abbeyfeale, Co Limerick and he passed away peacefully at home, following a brief illness, in the care of his loving wife and family. He is very sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen, his children Donal, Diarmuid, Maria, Helena and Caitriona; daughters-in-law Angela and Thérèse; sons-in-law Stuart and David; grandchildren Muireann, Cathal, Róisín, Sarah, Gearóid, Aoife, Niamh, Laoise, Conall, Danni-Mai and Fiadh, his brothers and sisters, nephews, nieces, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was held at The Church of The Assumption, Abbeyfeale. Interment afterwards in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Abbeyfeale.
Tadgh served in An Céad Cathlán Coisithe, Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Cathair na Gaillimhe. As a UN peacekeeper, he completed two tours of duty in the Congo and one tour of duty in Cyprus. As a Cpl, he served with Sp Pl, A Coy 35 Inf Bn from Jun to Dec 1961 and he fought at the Siege of Jadotville where he played a crucial role in the defence of the position as a skilled mortar man. His second tour was with Q Pl, HQ Coy 39 Inf Bn from Apr to Oct 1963. He served with the first DF unit in Cyprus with 3 Pl A Coy, 40 Inf Bn from Apr to Oct 1964.
Last Apr, Post 2 honoured four members for their service in the Congo.
The photograph shows Tadgh Quinn second from the left with Tom Twomey, Matt Murphy and Paddy Flynn.We extend our deepest sympathy to Tadgh’s family and to his comrades.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis cróga.
Post 1 Member – Tom Fletcher, 23/02/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform our members of the death on 23 Feb 2024 of CQMS Thomas (Tom) Fletcher (Retd), a member of Post 1, Balbriggan, formerly of Armagh and McKee Bks. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and in the wonderful care of staff at Gormanston Wood Nursing Home. Beloved husband of Margaret [Peig] and loving Dad of Michael, Stephen and Dorothy. Tom will be very sadly missed by loving family, daughters-in-law Miriam and Margaret, son-in-law Colin, grandchildren Erin, Siobhán, Shauna, Eoghan, and Killian, sisters Rosemary, Brigid, Ann and Margaret, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and kind neighbours.
Funeral Mass was ceclebrated on 28 Feb in S.S. Peter & Paul’s Church, Balbriggan, followed by burial in Balrothery Cemetery.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Ex BQMS Martin Fennell, 13/02/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members on 13 Feb 2023 of the death of former BQMS Martin Fennell, Cabra, Dublin and McKee Bks Coy. He died peacefully at the Mater Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Martin will be very sadly missed and remembered with love by his wife Gay, children Darren, Louise and Edel, cherished grandchildren, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law, sisters, brothers, sistersin-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbours.
His funeral mass was held on Saturday, 17 Feb 2024 at the Church of the Most Precious Blood, Cabra West followed by cremation in Glasnevin Crematorium.
Martin came from a family with long service in the DF. His father, Michael, joined in Oct 1938 and he served in the AC. His five brothers, Thomas, Paul, Gerard, Eugene and Brendan, served in E Comd/2 Bde
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Ex Corporal Nicholas Murphy, 11/02/2024
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to report the death of Nicholas Murphy ex 12 Inf Bn Clonmel. Peacefully in the care of the staff at Tramore Nursing Home, 11th February 2024.
Nicky, a former Cpl in 12 Inf Bn, Kickham Barracks, Clonmel. Predeceased by his daughter Annmarie, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Mary, sons Michael, Andrew, Nicholas and Gerard, daughters-in-law, sister Anne, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, his comrades and friends.
Requiem mass was held in Ss. Peter & Paul’s Church on 14 February followed by interment in St.Patrick’s Cemetery, Clonmel.
Rest In Peace
Obituary – Lieut Col Charles Cunningham (Retd), 06/02/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 6 Feb 2024 of Lieut Col Charles Cunningham (Retd), Templeogue, Dublin 6W and formerly of Aughera, Carrick, Co Donegal. He passed away peacefully in the care of the wonderful staff of St Vincent’s Hospital following the excellent care received in Brabazon House Nursing Home, Sandymount. Beloved husband of the late Noelle, loving and much-loved dad of Dónal and Ruairí. Charlie will be forever loved and deeply missed by his sons, daughters-in-law Denise and Orla, his adored grandchildren Darragh, Oscar, Aidan and Etain, brothers Connell and Eamonn, sister Lucy (McNiocaill), sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law especially Bebe and Mac, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and friends. Charlie is now re-united with his beloved Noelle and sister Mary. Removal from Massey Bros Funeral Home, Templeogue Village, D6W AC82 this Saturday morning to St Pius X Church, Templeogue arriving for 1000 Requiem Mass. Cremation Service thereafter in the Victorian Chapel, Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold’s Cross at 1215.
He served initially in Cork with 3 Maint Engr Coy and later in the Curragh and in DFHQ. He served with UNFICYP in Cyprus as Engr Offr, 11 Inf Gp from Aug 1968 to Mar 1969 and with UNIFIL in Lebanon.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Obituary – RQMS Malachy McCaul (Retd) 29/01/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death on 29 Jan 2024 of Post 1 member RQMS Malachy McCaul (Retd), Santry and formerly of Newry, late of 2 FA Regt, McKee Bks Coy and DFHQ.
He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at his residence. Adored husband of Pauline and beloved dad of Luke and Orla, doting grandad to Quinn. Malachy will be very sadly missed by his wife, son and daughter, son-in-law, Jake grandchild, brother, Peter, Donal, Nicholas, David and Jervis and sisters, Ann, Sheila, Marian, Madge and Deirdre brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and comrades.
Funeral Mass was celebratedin the Sacred Heart Church, Arbour Hill, followed by burial in Dardistown Cemetery.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé
Obituary – BQMS Paddy Cody (Retd) 29/01/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform our members of the death of BQMS Patrick (Paddy) Cody (Retd) on 29 Jan 2024 late of Fr Murphy Square, Kilkenny, the Curragh Camp, Co Kildare and Dungourney, Co Cork. Paddy died peacefully in the loving care of the wonderful staff at Youghal and District Nursing Home, Gortroe, Co Cork. He will be dearly missed by his loving brothers Liam in Florida and Anthony (Tony) in Dungourney, Co Cork, sisters-in-law Margaret and Monica, his nephew John, nieces Fiona and Antoinette, grandnephews and grandnieces, relatives, his many friends and neighbours and all of his army colleagues. Paddy is predeceased by his parents William and Margaret.
Requiem Mass was held in St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny on Wednesday 31 Jan, followed by burial in St Kieran’s Cemetery, Kilkenny.
He served in 3 Inf Bn and Mil Col and overseas with the UN in Cyprus with 5 Inf Gp from Oct 1965 to Mar 1966 and with 9 Inf Gp from Oct 1967 to Mar 1968.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam uasal dhílis.
Obituary – Col Frank Blake (Retd) 16/01/2024
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inforn members of the death on 16 Jan 2023 of Col Francis (Frank) Blake (Retd), a former Dir Engr Corps and late of Athlone and Dublin.
Beloved husband of Patricia, loving father to Louise, brother to Alice and cousin of Rev Fr John O’Connor. Will be sadly missed by brother-in-law Joe, sisters-in-law Michele, Maura and Teresa, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Predeceased by his brothers John and Dermot, sisters Eileen, Sr Mary, Kathleen and Colum and sisters-inlaw Sr Rosaleen Browne, Eileen Blake and brothers-in-law Louis Browne, Harry Greene and Tommy Sheahan.
Funeral Mass was held on 20 Jan, in St Mary’s Church, Athlone followed by Burial in Coosan Cemetery, Co Westmeath.
He he was born on 11 March 1932 and he was commissioned on 21 January 1955 as a Direct Entry Engineer Corps officer. As a Capt he served with the UN in the Congo as Engr Offr with 37 Inf Bn from May to Oct 1962. He served in Cyprus as Engr Offr with 3 Inf Gp from Jul to Dec 1964.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Ex Sgt David Roche – Post 25 IUNVA 29/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform members of the death of a Post 25 Fermoy member, Sgt David L Roche (Retd) late 1 Mot Sqn, 1 Cav Sqn, Fermoy and formerly of Shanballymore. He passed away peacefully on 29 Dec 2023, aged 85 years, in the presence of his loving family and in the exceptional care of the doctors, nurses and staff of St Patrick’s Community, Hospital, Fermoy.
Beloved husband of the late Bridget (née Flynn). Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his loving sons Mark and Peter, daughters Sharon and Sinéad, daughters-in-law Joan and Annette, sons-in-law Noel and Seanie, grandchildren Phoebe, Craig, Zach, Holly, Jane, Scott, Barry, Adam and Seán, great-grandchild Ari-Ella, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Patrick’s Church, Fermoy on 1 Jan 2024, followed by Cremation on 2 Jan 2024 in The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy.
He served in the Congo with 3 Armd Car Sqn from Apr to Oct 1963, in Cyprus with the Armd Car Gp, 42 Inf Bn from Apr to Sep 1965 and with Armd Car Gp, 8 Inf Gp from Mar to Oct 1967.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Comdt Paddy Gore (Retd) – 11/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 11 Dec 2023 of Comdt Patrick J (Paddy) Gore (Retd), Wexford Town and late of Mallow, Co Cork. Beloved husband of Vera, loving father of Elaine, Stephen, Patrick, Niamh and Kevin, brother of Noel, Don, Mary, Johnny and Bridget. He will be sadly missed by his family, son-in-law Woody, daughter-in-law Helena, Patrick’s partner Barbara, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, grandchildren Cian, Sara, Jasmine, Alyssa, Aubree, Ivie and Oscar, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated in Church of the Assumption, followed by a private cremation.
He was born in Co Cork on 13 September 1952 and he grew up in Mallow. He joined the DF on 6 Apr 1972 as a Cadet with 47 Cadet Class. He was commissioned as an Inf officer and he was posted as Pl Comd with 3 Inf Bn at Connolly Bks in the Curragh Training Camp on 2 Apr 1973. He served later in Stephens Bks, Kilkenny in a range of appointments with 30 Inf Bn and he was OC 10 Inf B An Fórsa Cosanta Áitiúil (FCÁ) at Wexford Mil Bcks. He served as the Barracks Services Officer at HQ C Comd.
On 15 October 1979, he deployed to Lebanon on United Nations service as a Staff Officer at UNIFIL HQ in the Logistics Branch with 1 Ircomp, UNIFIL HQ.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Post 6 IUNVA Treasurer – Joe Hayes – 06/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With regret we announce the death of Bty Sgt Joseph (Joe) Hayes (Retd) Treasurer Post 6 IUNVA Limerick.
Joe, of Moss Lodge, Faha, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick, and formerly of Sarsfield Barracks and New Street.
Peacefully, at University Hospital Limerick, after a short illness. Beloved husband of the late Teresa. Dearly loved father of Gregory, Natalie and Keith. Predeceased by his grandson Kieran. Sadly missed by his loving daughters-in-law, son-in-law, his beloved grandchildren, great-grandson, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, extended family and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at St. Oliver Plunkett Church, Mungret on Monday 11 December followed by cremation service in Shannon Crematorium.
He served initially with 12 Inf Bn, Sarsfield Bks Limerick before transferring to 3 AA Bty, 1 AA Regt.
He served with 25 Inf Gp in Cyprus and Sinai and also completed five of tours of duty with UNIFIL.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Lieut Col – Michael Bohan (Retd) – 05/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 5 Dec 2023 of Lieut Col Michael Bohan (Retd), Tully West, Kildare Town, Co Kildare. He passed away peacefully at Lourdesville Nursing Home surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving wife Pat, children Niall, Sheena and Enda, grandchildren Killian, Hugo, Tom, Billy and Jamie, daughters-in-law Anna, Amanda, and Sheena’s partner Lio, brother Brian, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Funeral Mass was held at St. Brigid’s Church, The Curragh, on 08 Dec 2023. With Cremation afterwards at Newlands Cross Crematorium.
He joined the Defence Forces as a Cadet with 29 Cadet Class in Nov 1954 and he was commissioned as an Inf Corps officer on 26 Nov 1956. As a Comdt he was an instructor in the Inf Sch and Cdt Sch in the Mil Col. As a Lieut Col he commanded 5 Inf Bn, 29 Inf Bn and 3 Inf Bn.
He served with the UN in the Congo, in Lebanon and in the Middle East. His tours of duty included: Lieut Pl Comd, C Coy 33 Inf Bn Jul 1960 to Jan 1961, QM 46 Inf Bn from Oct 1979 to May 1980. He commanded 65 Inf Bn from May to Oct 1989.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Congo Veteran James Myler 02/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 2 Dec 2023 of James (Jimmy) Myler, Darndale, Dublin (please note surname spelling Meyler in some DF records.) Loving dad of the late Derek and Sharon. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen, sons Michael, Seamus, Niall, Damien, Robert and Stephen, daughters Barbara, Bridget, Catherine, Louise and Deborah, sons in law, daughters in law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers, sisters, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was held on Friday 08 Dec 2023 in the Church of Our Lady Immaculate, Darndale, followed by burial in Balgriffin Cemetery.
He served in the Congo with A Coy 35 Inf Bn from Jun to Dec 1961 and he fought at the siege in Jadotville. His parent unit was 4 Fd Sigs Coy.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Obituary Ex Pte Joe Fitzpatrick Niemba Ambush Survivor – 05/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 5 Dec 2023 of Joseph Fitzpatrick, Cabra, Dublin), he was one of the two men who survived the Niemba Ambush on 8 Nov 1960. Nine of the eleven-man patrol from No 2 Pl, A Coy, 33 Inf Bn were killed. Pte Joseph Fitzpatrick (then 21 years of age), 2 Inf Bn, from Charlemont Street and Pte Thomas Kenny (then 24), 2 Fd Engr Coy, from Ballyfermot, survived the ambush.
Joseph passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff of the Mater Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his brother Des. Joseph will be very sadly missed and remembered with love by his wife Eileen and daughter Rosie, nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.
Mass was held at Church of the Most Precious Blood, Cabra West, followed by cremation in Mount Jerome Crematorium on 09 Dec 2023.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Photo 1 Joseph Fitzpatrick.
Photo 2 Thomas Kenny on the left with Joseph Fitzpatrick.
Post 1 IUNVA Member – Jimmy Whelan – 04/12/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 4 Dec 2023 of Post 1 member James (Jimmy) Whelan, late of Blackhorse Ave and formerly Cabra, Dublin 7. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and in the wonderful care of the staff of the Mater Hospital. Beloved husband of Marie, cherished Dad of Martin, James, Robert and Annemarie, adored grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Very sadly missed by his wife, sons, daughter, sister Ena, daughters-in-law Claire and Catherine, son-in-law Jonathan, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in Our Lady Help of Christians Church with Cremation thereafter in Glasnevin Crematorium Chapel on 07 Dec 2023.
He served in the Congo with 32 Inf Bn from Jul 1960 to Jan 1961 and with 37 Inf Bn from May to Nov 1962.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Bty Sgt Frank O’Connor (Retd) 15/11/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sorrow we inform IUNVA members of the death on 15 Nov 2023 of Bty Sgt Frank O’Connor Retd, Clondalkin and late of Finglas, 2 FA Regt and Ceremonial Section DFHQ, Post 1 member and a former National Development Officer.
Frank passed away peacefully in St James’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Beloved husband of Marguerite and much loved father of Ashleigh, Martina and Glenn, loving brother of Pat, Brendan, Tony, Martin, Liam and the late Sean. frank will be very dearly missed by his loving wife, children, sons-in-law Anton and Matthew, grandchildren Jack, Cian, Alex and Flynn, brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Funeral Mass was held in The Church of the Sacred Heart, Arbour Hill and afterwards to The Temple, Newlands Cross Cemetery for Cremation.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Sgt Norman Mason (Retd) – 12/11/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on Sunday 12 Nov 2023 of Sgt Norman Mason (Retd) late of the Cav Corps, The Commons, Duleek, Co Meath and Donnycarney, Dublin at his residence.
He was predeceased by his brother Dick and sister Angela. He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Kay, his special pet, Judy, his daughters, Catherine, Maria and Valerie, sons in law, Stephen, Ian and Scott, brothers, Noel and Jimmy, grandchildren, Gavin, Andrew, Sinead, William, Logan and Niamh, his greatgrandchild, Cillian, brothers and sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass for Norman was held on 13/11/2023 in St. Cianan’s Church, Duleek, followed by burial afterwards in The Good Shepherd Cemetery.
He joined the DF as an apprentice MT Fitter in the AAS, Devoy Bks, Naas and he served in a number of Cav Corps units including 4 Mot Sqn, 3 Mot Sqn FCA and 2 Mot Sqn. He served in the Congo with the Armd Car Gp, 37 Inf Bn from May to Nov 1962, he served in Cyprus with Armd Car Gps 4 Inf Gp from Jan to Jul 1965 and with 8 Inf Gp from Mar to Sep 1967.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Lieut Col Nicholas Hegarty (Retd) – 08/11/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 8 Nov 2023 of Lieutt Col Nicholas (Nicky) Hegarty (Retd), College Rd, Clane, Co Kildare. He passed away peacefully in the loving care of the staff of Mount Pleasant Lodge Nursing Home, Kilcock. He was pre-deceased by his first wife Rita and brothers Denis and Charlie. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Nuala, children David, Margaret, Denis, Nora, Aveen and Sarah, sons-in-law Tony, Brian, Liam and Christian, daughters-in-law Patricia and Martina, sister Mary (Ballesty), 13 grandchildren, 1 great-grandson, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Patrick and St Brigid’s Church, Clane, followed by burial in Mainham Cemetery, Clane on 11 Nov 2023.
He was born in May 1931, his father was Comdt Charles Hegarty who served in the Cav Corps from 1923 to 1959. Lieut Col Nicky Hegarty joined the DF in Nov 1950 as a Cdt with 25 Cdt Class and he was commissioned as an Inf Corps Officer in Nov 1952. Initially, he served in the E Comd with 2 Inf Bn and 7 Inf Bn. As a Comdt, he was Sch Comdt of the DF Sch of Physical Culture and as a Lieut Col he commanded the GTD. He made a major contribution to sport in the DF as a mentor and coach for track and field athletes and he helped many to achieve their potential at national, international and Olympics level. He innovated the training of PTIs and all sporting training syllabi were brought into line with best practice during his time in the gymnasium in the Curragh Camp.
“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Post 15 IUNVA Member – John Doherty – 07/11/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we report the death on 7 Nov 2023 of our comrade John Dohery, a member of Post 15 Cavan, Oldcastle Rd, Ballyjamesduff, Co Cavan. He was predeceased by his parents Eddie and Dilla Doherty. Deeply regretted and sorely missed by his loving wife Emer and daughter Aoife (Sean), sons Conor (Mathilde) and Rory (Jade), his cherished granddaughter Leah, brother Eamonn, sister Rose, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Joseph’s Church, Ballyjamesduff with burial afterwards in New Cemetary on 11 Nov 2023.
House Private, please.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis
Sgt John Sheehan Retd – 04/11/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Sgt John (Sambo) Sheehan (Retd), O’Higgins Terrace, The Curragh and Pairc Mhuire, Newbridge, Co Kildare. He passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of the nurses and staff of St Vincent’s Hospital, Athy. He was predeceased by his loving wife Mary; sadly missed by his son and daughters Kathleen, Mary, Carmel, Martina, Rita, Alison and John, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers Herbert and Michael, sister Ellen, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews and nieces, extended family, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated int St. Brigid’s Church, followed by cremation at Newlands Cross Crematorium.
He served in 1 Hosp Coy, GMH in the Curragh Camp and he served as a peacekeeper in Cyprus as Med Cpl with 20 Inf Gp from Apr 1968 to Nov 1971 and in Cyprus and the Sinai as Med Sgt with 25 Inf Gp from Oct 1973 to May 1974.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
John (Hooker) Roche – 01/11/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 1 Nov 2023 of John (Hooker) Roche (Retd), 32 St Bernard’s Place, Fermoy, Co Cork and late of 1 Mot Sqn and 1 Cav Sqn, Fitzgerald Camp, Fermoy. He passed away peacefully aged 74 years, surrounded by his loving family and in the tender care of the doctors, nurses & staff of Cork University Hospital.
Beloved brother of the late Jimmy and Mary Marchant, brother-in-law of the late Eileen Roche, Jerry Toher and Denis Coleman. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his loving wife Sadie and Daniel, sisters Ann Keohane and Liz Toher, nephews, nieces, grandnephews and grandnieces, brothers-in-law Jonathon Marchant, John Keohane and Billy Coleman, relatives, neighbours and friends. A special word of thanks to Ballincollig Community Nursing Home for their exceptional care and attention to Hooker over the years.
Funeral Mass was held in Queen of Peace Church, Fermoy 06 Nov 2023, with burial afterwards with his late parents John and Mary Roche in Kilcrumper Old Cemetery, Fermoy.
He completed three tours of duty with UNIFIL, he served as a Cpl with the Cav Recce Sec, B Coy 43 Inf Bn in 1978.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Tpr Paddy Bolger (Retd) – 29/10/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Tpr Patrick (Paddy) Bolger (Retd), Alms House, Castleblaney, Co Monaghan and late of 2 Cav Sqn. He passed away peacefully on 29 Oct 2023 in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Eileen, and his brother Eric. Sadly missed with love by his sons David, and Darren, their mother Bernie and his partner Josephine, his brother Danny, and sisters Jenny, and Lisa, brothers and sisters in-law, nieces, nephews and Josephine’s brothers and sisters and large circle of friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated at St Mary’s Church, Castleblayney, and burial in adjoining cemetery on 1 Nov 2023.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó
BQMS Billy McNamara (Retd) – 25/10/2023
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to announce the death of BQMS Billy McNamara (Retd) late of 12 Inf Bn, Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick.
Wednesday 25 October, peacefully at home, surrounded by his family. Predeceased by his beloved parents Michael & Mary, sisters Betty White and Mary Kinehan and brother in law Billy White. Will be sadly missed by his loving wife Patricia and cherished family Maureen, Liz, Michael, Kathleen & Emily, brothers Michael, Paddy & Mausie, sisters Breda, Sally & Valarie, grandchildren Rachel, Sophie, Oisin, Killian, Aoife & Molly, sons in law Natal & Jonathan, daughter in law Ali, sisters in law, brothers in law, nieces and nephews, cousins, neighbours and his many friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Mary’s of the Rosary Church, Nenagh, on 27/10/23, followed by burial in Lisboney New Cemetery. 
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Post 6 IUNVA Member – Willie Keane – 25/10/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Coy Sgt William (Willie) Keane (Retd) Deer Court, Carew Park, Limerick and formerly of Carnane, Fedamore, Co Limerick and late of 12 Inf Bn, Sarsefield Bks Limerick on 25 Oct 2023 (peacefully) in Milford Care Centre, surrounded by his family. He was a member of Post 6 and a former National Chairperson of IUNVA.
Predeceased by his wife Philomena, son Jimmy and daughter Caroline. Very deeply regretted by his daughters Linda, Pauline, Martina, Lorraine, Catherine, Dawn, Regina & Deirdre, sons Liam & Gerard, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-laws, other relatives, many friends and neighbors.
Requiem Mass was held at Our Lady, Queen of Peace, Roxboro Road, on, 28 Oct, followed by burial in Taylor’s Cross Cemetery, Fedamore.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Post 8 IUNVA Member – Sgt Patrick Costigan (Retd) – 20/10/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Patrick (Pat) Costigan, a member of Post 8 Kilkenny Westfield, Outrath Road and formerly of Assumption Place, Kilkenny, passed away 20 Oct 2023, peacefully, at St Luke’s Hospital. Predeceased by his parents William and Catherine and brother Tony. Beloved husband of Margaret and much loved father of Amy and Gavin. Pat will be sadly missed by his wife and family, brother Liam, sister Mary (Bergin), sisters-in-law, brother-in-law, nephew and nieces, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
Requiem Mass was held on 24 Oct 2023 in St John’s Church, Kilkenny, with Interment afterwards in Dunmore Cemetery.
Pat was born on 10 Dec 1953, he joined the Defence Forces on 18 Aug 1971 and did his initial training in GTD E Comd after which he transferred to 6 Bde in Kilkenny and then to 2 Inf Bn. In 1977 he transferred to 30 Inf Bn and was promoted to Cpl and then was promoted to the rank of Sgt in Apr 1986.
He served six tours of duty in Lebanon – 49, 53, 56, 59, 71 and 76 Bn UNIFIL. He retired on 20 Aug 1997.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
Brig Gen Daniel (Dan) Rea (Retd) – 17/10/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Brig Gen Daniel (Dan) Rea (Retd) on 17 Oct 2023, Eyrefield, The Curragh, and late of Moorefield Lodge, Newbridge, Co Kildare. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family and in the compassionate care of the wonderful staff of Naas General Hospital, to the inexpressible grief of his beloved wife Anne and his adored daughters Alison and Gillian, his ‘ three girls’. Deeply missed by Alison’s partner Jeremy, Gillian’s partner Robin, his brother Capt Jim Rea (Retd), his sisters Denise, Nora and Mary, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, army colleagues and a wide circle of cherished friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 19/10/23 at Saint Brigid’s Church, The Curragh with private cremation afterwards.
Brig Gen Rea enlisted in the DF as a Cdt with 37 Cdt Class in 2 Oct 1962 and on commissioning in Sep 1964, he was appointed as a Pl Comd with 4 Inf Bn. He later served with 13 Inf Bn FCA as Trg Offr. On promotion to Capt he was posted to the Curragh Camp and he served in a number of appointments in 3 Inf Bn and in the Mil Col. He completed the Coy Comd’s Course with the UK Armed Forces in Warminister
He deployed on his first tour of duty with the UN to Cyprus as a Pl Comd with B Coy 6 Inf Gp in Apr 1966. He returned to Cyprus as a Capt as Ops/Int Offr 25 Inf Gp on 3 Oct 1973. On 31 Oct – 1 Nov 1973 the unit was redeployed from Cyprus to Cairo and they served in the Sinai Peninsula with UNEF II following the Yom Kippur War. Gen Rea served in Lebanon as a Lieut Col in the appointment of OC 20 Ircomp and Camp Commandant at the Force HQ. He served as Liaison Officer to the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) at Mons, Belgium in 1998 – 99 and he was Dep Mil rep to NATO PfP in Brussels in 2000 – 01. On promotion to the rank of Brig Gen, he was appointed as ACOS.
Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dhílis.
Lieut Col Kevin Thomas (Retd) – 12/10/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 12 Oct 2023 of Lieut Col Kevin Thomas Roberts (Retd), Glanmire Cork and Dublin, late of DF Med Corps, Collins Bks Cork. He was born in Nov 1948 and he joined the DF as a direct entry Med Officer in Jul 1976. He served in the S Comd and he deployed to Lebanon as Senior Medical Officer with 46 Inf Bn in Oct 1979.
He passed away peacefully in the presence of his loving family and in the tender loving care of all the staff at the Bon Secours Hospital. Darling husband of Maura, most loving dad of Róisín and Deirdre, adored grandad of Kevin and Thea, dear brother of the late Paddy, Phil, Larry, Mary, Nuala and Marcella. Lovingly remembered by his wife and family, sons-in-law Jimmy and Johnny, brothers-inlaw, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, cousins, relatives, his colleagues and friends at the Link Road Medical Centre, Ballincollig and Collins Barracks. Cork.
Requiem Mass was held on 14 Oct 2023 in the Sacred Heart Church, Glounthaune with funeral afterwards to St Joseph’s Cemetery, Little Island.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Lieut Col Raymond Roche (Retd) – 18/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 18 Sep 2023 of Lieut Col Raymond L Roche (Retd), Clontarf, Dublin and Duncormick, Co Wexford. He died peacefully, surrounded by his family in the care of St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin. Beloved husband of the late Margaret, loving father of Paul, Gary, Nuala & Claire. Very sadly missed by his daughters-in-law Katherine and Christine, son-in-law Morgan, sister Carmel, grandchildren Morgan, Grace, David, Dylan, Sophia, Sadhbh, Iseult and Art, loving companion Freda, extended family, friends, and neighbours. Pre-deceased by his brothers Richard, Gerald, Sean and Dermot, and parents Laurence and Dorothea.
Funeral Mass was held in St. Anthony’s Church, Clontarf, followed by cremation at Glasnevin Crematorium on 20 September 2023.
He was born in Oct 1935, he joined the DF as a Cdt with 29 Cdt Class in 1954 and he was commissioned in Nov 1956. He served in the Congo as Lieut, Pl Comd, 2 Pl, A Coy, 34 Inf Bn from Jan to Jun 1961. He served in Cyprus as 2I/C B Coy, 20 Inf Gp from Apr to Nov 1971.
He served in W Comd, C Comd and E Comd.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Col Seán Hurley (Retd) – 16/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 16 Sep 2023 of Col John Anthony (Seán) Hurley (Retd), Caherdaniel, Co Kerry and The Orchards, Montenotte, Co Cork peacefully at the Mater Hospital Cork surrounded by his family. Dearly beloved husband and best friend of Brenda and loving father of John, Catherine, Miriam, Liam and Paul. Adored grandfather of Avril, Eoghan, Katie, Seán óg (deceased), Ronan, Cormac, Eva, JK, Síobhra, Ella, Arann, Orna, Niamh & Órla. Father in law to Therese, Bernadette, Seán, Pat and Sinéad. Cherished brother to Leonard, Mary & Jackie. Fondly remembered by brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews and a wide circle of friends at home and abroad..
Requiem Mass took take place on 19 Sep at 1300 in the Daniel O’ Connell Memorial Church, Caherciveen, Co Kerry, followed by burial in Keelavarnogue cemetery.
He was born on 5 July 1937. He joined the DF as a member of 31 Cdt Class in Dec 1956 and he was commissioned in Dec 1958. He served in 4 Inf Bn in a number of appointments, he was Ops Offr HQ S Comd and OC 6 Bde in C Comd.
He served with the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus as a Lt with A Coy, 42 Inf Bn from Apr to Sep 1965. He completed a tour of duty in the Middle East with UNTSO. As a Comdt he commanded B Coy, 46 Inf Bn in Lebanon from Oct 1979 to May 1980, he returned to Lebanon for a second tour of duty in 1986 as 2 I/C UNIFIL MP Coy. He served in Western Sahara as a military observer and Senior Irish Officer with MINURSO from Sep 1991 to May 1992. His final spell as a peacekeeper was in 1996 as Mil Assistant to FC UNIFIL. He retired in Jul 1997.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis
Congo Veteran Billy Leahy – 14/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA Members of the death on 14 Sep 2023 of William (Billy) Leahy late Harbour View Road and Collins Bks Cork. He passed away peacefully after a short illness, in the presence of his loving family and in the tender care of the doctors, nurses and staff of Cork University Hospital. Dearly beloved husband of the late Sheila and dearly loved father of Sheila, Noreen, Donal, Marion, Eleanor, Christine, John, Rose and William, adored granda and great granda. Sadly missed by his loving sons, daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers, sisters-in-law Noreen and Eleanor, brother-in-law Paddy, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.
He served with 4 Inf Bn and 1 Fd Sigs Coy. He served in the Congo with B Coy 36 Inf Bn.
Requiem Mass was clerated on 19 Sep at 1100 in the Church of the Resurrection, Farranree. Burial afterwards in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Blackrock.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé
Congo Veteran – John Raymond Keogh – 04/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sorrow we inform IUNVA members of the death on 4 Sep 2023 in the USA of a peacekeeper who served in the Congo and Cyprus, John Raymond Keogh, Boynton Beach, Florida, formerly of Yonkers, New York and late of Patrick Street, Portarlington Co Offaly. Predeceased by his parents Garrett and Dora and brother Gary. John is survived by his loving wife Marie, his children Gearóid and Gráinne, brothers Paddy and Brian, sisters Peg Whelan, Anne Byrne and Doreen Folan. He will be dearly missed by his numerous nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, relatives and friends.
He was born in Aug 1942 and he grew up in Portarlington where he played football for Portarlington Christian Brothers Secondary School and for the Co Offaly Minor team. Following his secondary education, he joined the DF at the Curragh Training Camp and he served in Dep Engrs. He served overseas in the Congo with C Coy 36 Inf Bn from Nov 1961 to May 1962 and in Cyprus with C Coy 40 Inf Bn from Apr to Nov 1964 – this was the first DF unit to serve with UNFICYP.
He emigrated to the USA in 1967 and he later enlisted in the US Army. He served a tour of duty in Vietnam. He settled in the Bronx after he was discharged.
A Funeral Mass for John took place in St Michael’s Church Portarlington on Friday 15 Sep with interment of ashes afterwards in St Michael’s Cemetery Portarlington.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Post 1 Member – Noel McGivern – 06/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 6 Sep 2023 of Sgt Noel McGivern (Retd) a member of Post 1, a veteran of service during the Emergency and a peacekeeper who completed two tours of duty with the United Nations in the Congo and two tours in Cyprus. Noel was one of the founding fathers of IUNVA.
Late of Montpelier Hill, Arbour Hill, Dublin. he passed peacefully in the loving care of his family and staff of St Anne’s Ward, Mater Hospital. Beloved husband of Patsy and father of Philip, Derek, Sean, David, Robert and Tracie. Sadly missed by his loving wife, sons, daughter, brother Tony, grandchildren Marilyn, Craig, Laura, Kellie and Conor, great-grandchildren Tauriel and Reeva, daughters-in-law Olive, Denise, Karen, Ruth, son-in-law James, sisters-in-law Margaret and Eva, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours, comrades and best friend Mick.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 09 Sep 2023 in the Church of the Sacred Heart (The Garrison Church), Arbour Hill and was followed with a cremation service at Glasnevin Crematorium.
Noel was born on Christmas Eve 1927 in the Curragh Camp where his father, Daniel, from Loughbrickland, Co Down, a veteran of the War of Independence was stationed. Noel enlisted in the DF in 1945 as a teenager and he served with 2 Inf Bn. He left after his initial engagement and worked in the UK. He returned home when the UN mission in the Congo started and he re-joined the DF on 29 Sep 1960. He served with 5 Inf Bn and he deployed to the United Nations Operation in the Congo (Opération des Nations Unies au Congo [ONUC]) as a Cpl with A Coy, 34 Inf Bn from Jan to Jul 1961. Before the end of that year he was back in the Congo and he served from Nov 1961 to May 1962 with A Coy, 36 Inf Bn. In Dec 1961, A Coy captured the Kasenga Tunnel when the unit put in a battalion in attack as part of a two-brigade offensive operation in Elisabethville. During fighting in Dec 1961, ONUC suffered 25 killed, 120 wounded, 16 were taken prisoner and one (an Indian Maj) was posted missing, presumed dead. 36 Inf Bn battle casualties were 4 killed and 25 wounded.
Noel served in Cyprus with A Coy 3 Inf Gp from Jul 1964 to Jan 1965 and with A Coy 8 Inf Gp from Mar to Sep 1967. Noel was promoted to the rank of Sgt and he retired from the DF in 1981.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air
(Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord. And let perpetual light shine upon him).
Post 5 Member – BSM Patrick (Pat) Dunlea (Retd) – 04/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to inform IUNVA members of the death on 4 Sep 2023 of BSM Patrick (Pat) Dunlea (Retd), Church Avenue, Cork and a member of Post 5. Beloved husband of Ann (née Goldsmith), devoted and loving father of Roseann, Sandra and Deborah. Sadly missed by his loving wife, daughters, adored grandchildren Danielle, Gary, Kevin, Nicole, Patrick and Lauren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law John, Kenneth and Deborah’s partner Darren, sister-in-law Ellen, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends, especially his closest friends Billy and Tony.
Requiem Mass was held on Friday 8 Sep in the North Cathedral followed by funeral afterwards to St Mary’s Old Cemetery, Curraghkippane.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis
Post 1 Member – Michael Stanford – 01/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 1 Sep 2023 of Michael (Stan) Stanford late of Ballymun, Dublin and Post 1. He was a veteran peacekeeper who served in the Congo, Cyprus and Lebanon. He served in the Congo with 6 Pl, C Coy, 39 Inf Bn from Apr to Oct 1963, in Cyprus with the Hy Mor Tp, 9 Inf Gp from Oct 1967 to Apr 1968 and with 47 Inf Bn UNIFIL in Lebanon from May to Oct 1980. He served at home in Magee Bks, Kildare with 1 AA Trg Regt, 1 AA Regt and 6 FA Regt.
Stan passed peacefully after a short illness in the loving care of his family and the staff of Saint Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.
Beloved father of Deirdre and the late Michael and Brian. Sadly missed by his daughter, brothers, sisters, grandchildren Alura, Michael, David and Jason, great-grandchildren (especially Shianna), son-in-law Mick, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, Brian and Geraldine Clare, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends. His Funeral Mass was held at the Church of The Sacred Heart, Arbour Hill, followed by burial in Esker Cemetery, Lucan 6 Sep 2023.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó
Col Patrick Ghent (Retd) 01/09/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 1 Sep 2023 of Col Patrick Ghent (Retd), a former Arty Corps officer and Deputy Judge Advocate General, Terenure Dublin and Cork. He passed away peacefully at Orwell Private Nursing Home.
Beloved husband of Eve; he will be very sadly missed by his loving wife, brother Fr Billy Ghent and sister Sr Bernie Ghent, sister-in-law Annette, relatives and wide circle of friends.
He joined the DF in 1953 as a member of 27 Cadet Class and he was commissioned as an Arty Corps 2/Lieut on 6 December 1954.
As a Capt, he served with the Hy Mor Tp, 42 Inf Bn UNFICYP from Apr to Sep 1965. He served with 45 Inf Bn UNIFIL as Legal Officer.
A celebration of his life will take place on Tuesday, 5 Sep at 1415 hours in Mount Jerome Crematorium (Garden Chapel) which can be viewed on the following link,
House strictly private please.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Post 15 Member – Denis Barry – 24/08/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Denis Barry, a member of Post 15, 40 Cortolvin View, Monaghan Town on Thursday 24 Aug peacefully surrounded by the people that loved him in St Francis Hospital Dublin.
Dennis will be sadly missed by his goddaughters Corina & Jennifer. Denis will repose in Clerkins Funeral Home, Milltown, Monaghan (H18YF22) on Saturday 26 Aug from 1600 to 2000 hours.
He was buried in Laturcan Cemetery Monaghan.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó.
UN Veteran – Thomas Silke – 21/08/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on Monday 21 Aug 2023 of Thomas (Tom) Silke, Athy, Co Kildare, late of 6 Inf Bn, Custume Barracks, Athlone and formerly of Ballinasloe, Co Galway. Sadly missed by his comrades and many friends.
Tom served with the United Nations in the Congo and in Cyprus.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated in S.S. Peter & Paul’s Church, Athlone on Tuesday 29 Aug at 1200 hours followed by burial afterwards in the IUNVA Memorial Garden, Coosan Cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Post 29 Member – Patrick (Murt) O’Leary – 14/08/2023
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to announce the death of Congo Veteran and Post 29 Member, Patrick (Murt) O’Leary 15 Mount Leinster Park, Carlow Town today 14th August 2023.
Murt served in 2 Fd S&T and also served Overseas with the 1st Inf Gp in the Congo, May to November 1961. Murt was a regular attendee of Post meetings and a strong supporter of Post 29 right up to his death today. He was 81 years of age.
Patrick (Murt) O’Leary of 15 Mount Leinster Park, Tullow Rd., Carlow and formerly Ballypierce, Co. Carlow, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on August 14th, 2023, at his home.
Beloved husband of the late Eileen, much loved father of Frances, Patrick, Sharon and Ashling and cherished brother of Jimmy, Johnny, Martin, Noel, Frank, and the late Kevin and Gwen.
He will be sadly missed by his loving son, daughters, grandchildren Jamie, Roy, Taylor, Rebecca, Chelsea, Daragh, Scott, Isabel, Zara, Naomi, Elle and Maia, great-grandchildren Emily, Charlie, Harper Curran, Harry and Harper Byrne, sons-in-law Damien and Roy, brothers, sister-in-law, uncle Mick, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated at The Holy Family Church, Askea followed by burial in Kildavin New Cemetery.
Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis
Lieut Col Fergus Marshall (Retd) – 31/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death of Lieut Col Fergus Marshall (Retd), Ennis Co Clare and Mullingar Co Westmeath on 31 Jul 2023 at University Hospital Kerry. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, June Marshall (née Travers) and his brothers Frank and Eddie. He will be sadly missed by his loving children Paul, Hugh, Fergus Jnr, David and Rosanne, daughters-in-law Fi, Ciara and son-in-law Gavin, grandchildren Julia, Margot, Theo, Myles, Oisin, Luca and Finn, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
He joined the Army as a Cdt with 37 Cdt Class in Oct 1962 and on commissioning in Sep 1964, he was assigned to the S&T Corps. He served in E Comd, W Comd and DFHQ.
He served as a Lieut Pl Comd, Tpt Pl, HQ Coy, 19 Inf Gp in Cyprus from Oct 1970 to Apr 1971, with 54 Inf Bn as a Comdt Tpt Gp Comd, HQ Coy, in Lebanon from Nov 1983 to Apr 1984 and as an observer with UNTSO in the Middle East.
Funeral Mass was held Ennis Cathedral on Saturday 5 Aug2023 followed by a private cremation.
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Martin (Murty) Ryan – 31/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 31 Jul 2023 of Martin (Murty) Ryan Hillside, Knockavilla, Co Tipperary , Golden, Co. Tipperary and Galbally, Co Limerick. Martin was the beloved father of the late Derek and brother of the late William, Dinny and Mary. Deeply regretted by his wife Margaret, son Sean, daughter Brigid, grandchildren Jessica, Dale and Joshua, brothers Thomas, Paddy, Eddie and Tony, sisters Kitty, Angela and Nora, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Mary’s Church, Irishtown, Clonmel followed by Burial in St Patrick’s Cemetery, Clonmel.
Martin served with the UN in the Congo and in Cyprus with 84mm A/Tk Sec, Sp Pl, B Coy 13 Inf Gp from Sep 1969 to Apr 1970. His parent unit was 12 Inf Bn.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis
Capt Hugh O’Neill (Retd) – 30/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 30 Jul 2023 of Capt Hugh O’Neill (Retd), Market Square, Ballymore Eustace, Co Kildare in the loving care of the staff of the Ardeen Cheshire Nursing Home, Shillelagh Co Wicklow.
Adored husband of Áine, and father of Aaron, Megan, Cian, Niall and Ella. He will be dearly missed by son-in-law Paul, daughter-in-law Eileen, brother John, sister Maura, extended family and his many loyal friends. Predeceased by Nellie and parents Lieut Col Tom O’Neill and Joan.
Funeral Mass was held in the Church of the Immaculate Conception on 03 August followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ballymore Eustace.
He grew up on the Green Road in Newbridge, Co Kildare, the son of Lieut Col Tom and Joan O’Neill, he was a brother of Lieut Col John O’Neill (Retd), a former OC 4 Inf Bn. Hugh joined the DF in 1980 as a Cdt with 57 Cdt Class and he was commissioned in the Inf Corps in 1982. He served with 1 Cn Cois in Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa and with 3 Inf Bn, AAS and in the Sch of Admin in C Comd. He served in Lebanon with 63 Inf Bn UNIFIL from May to Oct 1988.
I measc na naomh go raibh sé.
Bobby Bradley Post 19 IUNVA – 21/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to announce the death of former Sgt Robert Laurence (Bobby) Bradley a member of Post 19 Letterkenny, Co Donegal and a veteran of three tours of duty with ONUC in the Congo and one tour with UNIFIL in Lebanon.
As a Pte he served with C Coy 32 Inf Bn from Jul 1960 to Jan 1961, with A Coy 35 Inf Bn from Jun to Dec 1961 when he fought at Jadotville in Sep 1961 and with C Coy 37 Inf Bn from May to Nov 1962. He served with 44 Inf Bn from Nov 1978 to Apr 1979.
His parent unit while he was in the Congo was 6 Inf Bn, he later transferred to 28 Inf Bn and to 24 Inf Bn FCA.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at the Church of Immaculate Conception, Killea, followed by interment in Newtowncunningham cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis croga.
Comdt Frank Kelly (Retd) – 12/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we inform IUNVA members of the death on 12 Jul 2023 of Comdt Francis Aidan (Frank) Kelly, Connaught Street, Athlone, Co Westmeath, The Curragh Camp, Co Kildare and late of the Ord Corps. Frank’s brother Michael is a member of Post 11 The Curragh.
Frank was born in May 1953 and he grew up in the Curragh Training Camp where his father was a senior NCO. After completing secondary education, he studied science at UCD. He joined the Defence Forces as a Cdt with 47 Cdt Class in Apr 1972 and when he was commissioned in Sep 1973, he was appointed as Pl Comd, A Coy, 12 Inf Bn, Sarsfield Bks Limerick. In Jul 1975 he was conferred with a Bachelor of Science degree with distinction from University College Galway. He transferred to the Ord Corps as a technical officer and he served with 1 Grn Ord Coy in the Curragh and later with 4 Grn Ord Coy and with 4 LSB in Custume Bks, Athlone.
He served in South Lebanon as the Ord Offr, 67 Inf Bn from May to Sep 1990.
He was pre-deceased by his brother Brendan. Sadly missed by his son Aidan and daughter Susan, daughter-in-law Roxana, grandchildren Emma, Matilda, Finnley and Jack, brothers Ger and Michael, sister Kathleen, brothersin-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, extended family, relatives and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at at St. Brigid’s Church, The Curragh,
Suaimhneas síoraí tabhair dó, a Thiarna agus go lonraí solas suthain air.
Photo credit Lt Col Fergus Hannon (Retd)
Ex Sgt Jimmy Coady Post 24 IUNVA – 10/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With regret we inform members of the death of Ex Sgt Jimmy Coady, 12 Inf Bn, a member of Post 24 IUNVA.
Jimmy passed away peacefully in the tender care of the staff of the Oak Ward at Waterford University Hospital on Monday morning surrounded by his loving family. He will be sadly missed by his sisters Breda, Catherine and Helen, brother Michael, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at St. Mary’s Church, Clonmel, on Friday 14 July 2023.
Jimmy who retired from the DF at the rank of Sergeant served in Sp Coy 12 Inf Bn Kickham Barracks, Clonmel He originally came to Clonmel from Dún Uí Neill, Cavan. H served overseas with: 45th Inf Bn UNIFIL, 70th Inf Bn UNIFIL and 73rd Inf Bn UNIFIL Lebanon.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Ex CQMS Gerry Toher (The Yank) Post 25 IUNVA – 10/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we report the death of Ex CQMS Gerry Toher, a member of Post 25 IUNVA.
Gerry passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, in the exceptional care of the staff at St. Patrick’s Community Hospital, Fermoy. Beloved husband of Liz (nee Roche) and dear father of Michael, Woody and Lilly. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, sons, daughter, daughters-in-law Ursula and Liz, Lilly’s partner Caleb, grandchildren Fiachra, Isabel, Unity, Rebecca, Adam and Karen, extended family, neighbours and friends..
Gerry passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, in the exceptional care of the staff at St. Patrick’s Community Hospital, Fermoy. Beloved husband of Liz (nee Roche) and dear father of Michael, Woody and Lilly. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, sons, daughter, daughters-in-law Ursula and Liz, Lilly’s partner Caleb, grandchildren Fiachra, Isabel, Unity, Rebecca, Adam and Karen, extended family, neighbours and friends..
Gerry who retired from the DF at the rank of CQMS served in 1st Motor Squadron / 1st Cavalry Squadron in Fitzgerald Camp Fermoy. He ended his military career as Barrack Accountant in Lynch Camp Kilworth.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Captain Larry Hayes (Retd) – 03/07/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Capt Laurence (Larry) Hayes (Retd), Cappanuke, Cappamore, Co Limerick, Irish Defence Forces and former Secretary Manager Castletroy Golf Club on Monday 3 Jul 2023 peacefully at the University Hospital Limerick surrounded by his loving family. Sadly missed by his loving wife Anne, son Ronan, daughter Sarah, Ronan’s partner Michelle, son in law Shane, his beloved grandchildren Rachel, Sorcha & Evan, Rachel’s partner Nathan, sisters Kathleen and Elizabeth, relatives and friends.
He joined the DF as an apprentice with 2 Pl at AAS, Devoy Bks Naas from 1957 to 1960, he was posted to Grn Ord Coy Cork after he passed> he later underwent the 2nd Potential Officers Course in 1970. He was commissioned on 7 Dec 1970 and served initially in 2 Fd Sigs Coy and DFHQ Sigs Coy. He was transferred to Inf Corps was QM 12 Inf Bn Sarsfield Bks Limerick.
Requiem Mass was celebrated at Holy Rosary Church, Murroe for followed by burial in Abington Cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam Dílis
Captain Shane Ashe (Retd) – 12/06/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Capt Shane Ashe (Retd), Barr na Sráide, Ballyheigue/ Dromkeen West, Causeway, Co Kerry and formerly of Newbridge, Co Kildare. Retired Army Captain, Shane died suddenly in the exceptional care of the staff of Bons Secours Hospital, Tralee on 12 Jun 2023. Predeceased by his father Matt, he will be sadly missed by his children Muireann and Matthew, and their mother Mary. Also by his heartbroken mother Joan, his brothers Harry, Mícheál, Tom and Máirtín, his sisters Sheila and Eileen, his brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, nephews and nieces, his granddaughter Maia, and all his relatives and many friends.
He joined the DF as a Cdt with 52 Cdt Class in 1975 and he served in the Curragh with GTD. He was Pl Comd, C Coy, 54 Inf Bn UNIFIL IN 1983 – 84.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on Friday 16 Jun in St. John’s Church, followed by burial in St. John’s Cemetery, Causeway.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a Anam
RSM KEN HURLEY DFTC CIS GP – 11/06/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of RSM Ken Hurley Kilglass, DFTC CIS Gp, Longwood, Co Meath and Clonakilty, Co Cork on 11 Jun 2023, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. Loving husband of Ann and cherished father of Alison, Robyn, Peter, and Robyn’s partner Dylan. Deeply regretted by his Mother, Phyllis; father, Charles; brothers Mark and Brendan; sisters Irene and Caroline, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, friends and his military colleagues at home and abroad.
Requiem mass was celebrated on Thursday 15 Jun 2023, in the Church of the Holy Family, Kilshanroe, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis.
Captain Edel Douris (Retd) – 09/06/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness IUNVA informs members of the death on 9 Jun 2023 of Capt Edel Douris-O’Halloran (Retd), Rath, Kinsalebeg, Piltown, Youghal, Co Cork and Kinsalebeg, Co Waterford, peacefully at Marymount University Hospital and Hospice Cork. Lovingly remembered by her Husband Roger, adored children Kate and Eoin, her parents Jack and Mary Douris, sister Linda, brothers John, Brian, Francis and Gavin, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, special friend Sue, relatives, neighbours and friends.
She joined the DF as a Cdt with 58 Cdt Class in Nov 1981. She was commissioned in Mar 1983 and she served in the S Comd as an Inf Corps officer. She served in Kickham Bks Clonmel with 12 Inf Bn, 4 Inf Bn in Collins Bks Cork at HQ S Comd as a Staff Officer and as ADC to the GOC.
She served in Lebanon on two occasions, on her second tour she was Asst Ops Offr 77 Inf Bn from May to Nov 1995.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Bartholomews Church, Piltown, Kinsalebeg with burial afterwards in the adjoining Cemetery.
Suaimhneas síorí dá hanam.
Congo Veteran Lubo Scally Post 20 – 07/06/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 7 Jun 2023 of a member of Post 20, Gnr James (Lubo) Scally, Harbour Street, Mullingar, Co Westmeath and formerly 4 Fd Arty Regt and a Jadotville veteran. He died peacefully in the tender care of the staff at Roselodge Nursing Home, Killucan.
Jimmy will be very sadly missed by his sisters, Jane (Kissane), Kathleen (Shulton) and Rosaleen (Nugent), his good friend Doreen Byrne, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and former army colleagues.
Mass was celebrated at Cathedral of Christ the King. Burial took place in Ballyglass Cemetery.
He fought at Jadotville as a member of A Coy, 35 Inf Bn in Sep 1961. On 18 Dec 1961, he was wounded in the shoulder during the fighting in Elisabethville.
Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh a anam dhílis
Peter Gibbons Post 30 – 03/06/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness we report the death of one of our members Peter Gibbons of Corrib Park, Newcastle, Galway on Sunday 3rd June 2023.
Beloved husband of Julie and much loved father of Paul, Colin, Michelle, Veronica, Martin, Siobhan, Andrea and Jeanette. Deeply mourned and sadly missed by his wife and children and their partners, his adored grandchildren and great grandchildren, the extended Gibbons and Salvage family, neighbours and friends.
Requiem Mass was celebrated on 7th June in The Church of the Sacred Heart, followed by a Private cremation.
Peter served with 1 Inf Bn Galway and with the 43rd Inf Bn UNIFIL Lebanon.
Our Deepest Condolences to Peter’s family and friends, may he Rest in Peace.
Sgt Victor Twohig Retd – 28/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Sgt Victor Twohig (Retd) Iona Place, Mayfield, Cork on 28 May 2023. He served in 1 Fd S&T Coy and in the Legal Office HQ S Comd, Collins Bks Cork.
Dearly loved husband of Ann and much loved father of Paul, Victor and Brian and loving brother of Marie, Betty, Helen, Gerard and the late Denis, Jimmy, Teddy and Margaret. Sadly missed by his loving wife and sons, brother, sisters, daughters-in-law Bríd and Emily, grandchildren Lucy, Ronan, Jane, Alice, May and Nancy, nephew, nieces, relatives and friends.
Requiem Mass was held on 30 May in the Church of Our Lady Crowned Mayfield followed by funeral to Rathcooney Cemetery.
Suaimhneas sioraí dá anam dílis.
Congo Veteran Brendan (Muiris de Barra) Barry – 18/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Brendan (Muiris de Barra) Barry, Castleview, Carrigtwohill, Co Cork on 18 May 2023 peacefully at Marymount Hospice, Cork. He was a son of the late Annie and Paddy Barry. Sadly missed by his loving wife Esther and son Alan, son-in-law Aaron, his extended family, his Veteran Family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends from Ukraine and Ireland.
He served in the Congo from May to Nov with 1 Inf Gp, the unit was involved in heavy fighting in defence of Kamina Base in Sep 1961 during Operation Morthor. His parent unit was 1 FA Regt.
In Aug 2022, Brendan organised a ceremony at Arbour Hill for a number of surviving the members of 1 Inf Gp to unveil a unit identification pennant and Coy pennants. IUNVA was honoured to host this ceremony for the “ One Inch Group” veterans.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís.
Col Seamus (Jim) Condon (Retd) – 14/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death on 14 May of Col Seamus (Jim) Condon, Blackrock, Co Dublin in his 94th year, in the loving care of the staff at the Fern Dean Nursing Home, Deansgrange.
Darling husband of the late Veronica and beloved father of Andrew, Myriam and Bernice, dear father-in-law to Ruth and Peter, and adored grandfather to Daniel, Theo and Adam. Deeply regretted by his cousins, sisters-in-law, extended family and friends.
Funeral Mass was celebrated on 18 May followed by burial in Deans Grange Cemetery.
Col Condon joined the Defence Forces as a member of 22 Cadet Class in 1949 and he was appointed to the Artillery Corps when he was commissioned in Dec 1950. He served initially in 1 Fd Arty Regt and later at Fort Dunree Co Donegal, Magee Bks Kildare, the Mil Col when he was n instructor in the Cdt Sch and the Inf Sch, DFHQ, he was OC 2 FA Regt and, as a Col, D Arty 1986 – 88. He retired from the DF in Apr 1990.
He served with the United Nations in the Congo from June to December 1961 with B Coy Gp, 35 Inf Bn and je was involved in operations in Elisabethville and at Lufira Bridge.
He served in Lebanon from April 1984 to April 1985 as the Camp Commandant, HQ UNIFIL and he completed a second tour as Senior Liaison Officer at HQ UNIFIL for one year from Sep 1988 .
Photo caption: Col Jim Condon as a Capt in Elisabethville in 1961, photo credit the Col Seamus Condon private collection Mil Archives.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis
Fintan Morrissey Post 11 IUNVA – 13/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of a member of Post 11, Fintan Morrissey Highfield Estate, Newbridge, Co Kildare and late of Mountrath, Co Laois, former Sgt GTD, McDonagh Bks, Curragh Camp on 13 May 2023, he died peacefully at his home with his loving family by his side. Sadly missed by his loving wife Kathleen, children Deirdre, Paul, Dominic, Stephen, Fintan, Tara, Denise, Lisa and Marie, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, 14 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, sister Breda, sister-in-law Peg, nieces and nephews, extended family, relatives and friends.
He served overseas as a Pte with C Coy, 33 Inf Bn ONUC in the Congo from Aug 1960 to Jan 1961. As a Cpl, Fintan completed two tours of duty with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus(UNFICYP), he served with A Coy, 3 Inf Gp from Jul 1964 to Jan 1965 and with A Coy, 13 Inf Gp from Sep 1969 to Apr 1970.
Burial was at St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
I measc na n-aingeal is na naomh go raibh sé.
Christy Higgins (Curragh) – 11/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Christopher (Christy) Higgins, a former Cpl at HQ C Comd Curragh, Monread Heights, Naas, Co Kildare, formerly of Sarto Road and St Corban’s Place, Naas. Deeply missed by his loving wife Eileen, daughters Ellen and Catherine, sons-in-law Dave and Tristan, grandchildren Molly, Jake, Sam, Nathan, Evelyn and Freya, his sister Mary, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.
He served with 1 IrComp, Camp Comd, HQ UNIFIL from Oct 1979 to My 1980.
Funeral was in The Church of Our Lady and St. David, Naas and burial in St Corban’s Cemetery, Dublin Road, Naas.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Joe Coughlan Ex 4 Motor Sqn – 06/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
IUNVA regrets to inform members of the death of Joseph (Joe) Coughlan Barrettstown Lawns, Newbridge, Co Kildare and formerly of The Curragh Camp, a former Tpr 4 Mot Sqn. Joe passed away peacefully, in the loving and tender care of the staff and nurses of St. Joseph’s Ward, St Vincent’s Hospital, Athy. Predeceased by his parents John and Mary, brothers Jim and Paddy, sisters Eileen, Kitty and Brigid. Sadly missed by his loving wife Bernie, children Sandra, Geraldine, Joey and Colm, son in law Brendan and their partners, grandchildren Ross, Aoife, Kallie, Patrick,Josh, Shoana, Jordi and Max, great grandson Luca, sisters Maureen, grandson Luca, sisters Maureen, Tricia, Anne, Teresa and Rita, brothers Seán, Tony and Tommy, brothers and sisters in law, nieces and nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Funeral Mass was in St. Conleth’s Parish Church, Newbridge. Burial afterwards in St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.
Obituary Col Joe Young (Retd) – 06/05/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness IUNVA informs our members of the death of Col Joe Young of Barna, County Galway and formerly of Donnycarney, Dublin. On Saturday, 6 May 2023 in his 90th year, very peacefully at home with his dearly loved wife Barbara (née Mullan) and daughters, Aisling, Karen, Shirine and Orla by his side. Predeceased by his much-loved siblings Essie, Phyllis, Séamus, Pat, Tony, Davrul and Eamon. Joe is deeply mourned and greatly missed by his wife, daughters, brothers, sons-in-law and adored grandchildren; Aisling’s husband David and children Joe and Orla, Karen’s husband Pat and children Mark and Christina, Shirine’s husband Justin and children Zoe, Jordan and Sam, Orla’s husband Brian and children Saoirse and Óisín, and Brian’s children Aoibhinn and Brian and by his brothers Liam and Seán. Sadly missed also by brothers-in-law in particular Seán Williams and sisters-in-law, relatives, Defence Forces colleagues and friends.
Joe Young, a native of Donnycarney in Dublin, was born on 15 Nov 1933 and attended Saint Joseph’s Christian Brothers School in Fairview. He enlisted in the Defence Forces as a member of 27 Cadet Class and was commissioned on 6 Dec 1954 into the Infantry Corps. He spent his early years with An Céad Cathlán in Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway and afterwards, in a wide variety of appointments throughout the DF. Overseas, Joe served as a Pl Comd, C Coy, 36 Inf Bn in the Congo from Dec 1961 to May 1962. On 16 July 1970, while serving with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation UNTSO on the Suez Canal, he was one of a party of four Military Observers conducting a reconnaissance when they came under fire. One observer was killed and another wounded. In a further incident he sustained serious hand injuries in a landmine explosion that destroyed his UN vehicle and killed a fellow Military Observer. He was 2 I/C 49 Inf Bn from May to Oct 1981 and Bn Comd 57 Inf Bn in Lebanon from May to October 1985. Joe also served with the United Nations Iran-Iraq Military Observer Group.
Joe played senior hurling with Dublin and won an All-Ireland Junior Medal with that county. While playing with Saint Vincents he won numerous senior and junior medals in both football and hurling. He was the holder of Leinster Colleges and Army Medals and was one of four Army Officers who played on the 1956 Galway team that won the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship together with Jack Kissane, Gerry Kerwin, and Billy O’Neill. The reserve goalkeeper was Private Jody O’Neill. Joe suffered a fractured collar bone in the match, which was against Cork.
Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of Mary Immaculate Queen, Barna and he was laid to rest in Réalt na Mara cemetery, Furbo.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís
Obituary former BQMS Art Sheeehan – 09/04/2023
From PRO IUNVA
With sadness IUNVA informs members of the death of former BQMS Art Sheeehan, Glenthorn Way, Dublin Hill, Cork and formerly of Dungarvan, Co Waterford on 9 Apr 2023, peacefully in the presence of his family at the Mercy University Hospital. Dearly beloved husband of Breda, loving father of Lynda, Jacqueline, Valerie, Deirdre and Maria, adored grandad of Danielle, Stephanie, Alex, Adam, Gabrielle, Christopher, Jonathan, Jacob, Ella, Shane and Evie and great-grandad of Maddison. Sadly missed by his loving wife and family, extended family, neighbours and friends.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dilís
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 took place at the Church of the Assumption, Ballyphehane. Requiem Mass was celebrated with funeral afterwards at St. Joseph’ afterwards at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Tory Top Road.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 was 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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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
With 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;
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
He 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
With 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 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.
Go dtuga Dia suaimhneas sioraí dó
Death of James Howley – 05/10/2022
From PRO IUNVA
With 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.
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
It’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 4 Infantry Battalion, Collins Barracks, Cork.
He was also 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.
Obituary Staff QMS Pat Weafer RIP 07/08/2022
From PRO IUNVA
With 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
With 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.
May Tommy Rest in Peace.
Death of of George Curling – Post 5 IUNVA 28/07/2022
From PRO IUNVA
With 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 IUNVA
With 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.
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
It 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.
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
With 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.
Pat O’Flaherty Post 30 member & Congo Veteran – 17/06/2022
From PRO IUNVA
With 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.
IUNVA Post 2 Member ex-Sgt Jim Byrnes – 08/06/2022
From PRO IUNVA
It is with sadness we report the passing of our esteemed Post 2 member, Jimmy Byrnes.
of 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.
Requiem Mass was held in St. Molua’s Church Ardagh with burial afterwards in Clonagh Cemetery
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 – 28/05/2022
From PRO IUNVA
We regret to report the death of Joe Hynes .
Joe 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.
Requim Mass was celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, the Curragh for 11am Mass. Burial afterwards in St. Conleth’s Cemetery, Newbridge.
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.
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
It 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.
Post 3 Member Charlie Raleigh – 29/04/2022
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.
Funeral Mass was celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Kilrush with burial afterwards Kilrush Cemetery.
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.
He 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.
Retired 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 – 06/04/2022
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) 05/04/2022
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.
Ex CQMS Michael McTighe – 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.
Captain John Clarke (Retd) – 24/03/2022
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 – 23/02/2022
We regret to report of the sad loss of Robert (Robbie) Dyland son of Post 1 member David 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) – 13/02/2022.
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.
Ex Sqn Sgt John Byrne – 10/02/2022
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.
Funeral Mass was celebrated in the Church of St. Mary Magdelene, Kilmyshall on Saturday, 11 Feb 2022. Burial afterwards in Calvary cemetery, Bunclody.
May John’s soul Rest In Peace
Seamus Furlong – 06/02/2022
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 – 05/02/2022
The death has occurred of Andrew McKenna Post 1, on 5th February 2022, a Veteran who served with ONUC in the Congo.
Martin Page Post 1 IUNVA – 21/01/2022
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 Terry McNulty (Retd) – 12/01/2022
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 – 10/01/2022
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 – 05/01/2022
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 – 14/11/2021
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.
P
redeceased 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.
Congo Veteran Thomas Kenny (RIP) – 30/10/2021
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.
