RIP: Leitrim man remembered fondly as “a man steeped in his local community”

Tributes have been pouring in following the death of a Leitrim man remembered as “a man steeped in his local community.”

John Joe Dolan of Stramore, Drumshanbo passed away peacefully on Friday, January 30, in the care of staff at Sligo University Hospital. He was predeceased by his parents, Thady and Maggie Ellen.

John Joe is sadly missed by his loving wife Mary; children Déirdre, Brian and Sinéad; son-in-law Keith; daughter-in-law Anne; and cherished grandchildren Kaitlyn, Tara, Liam and Seán. 

He is also mourned by his sister Máirín, brother Padraig, sisters- and brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, and a wide circle of friends and neighbours.

A former employee of Leitrim County Council, John Joe has been fondly remembered in condolences on RIP.ie for both his dedication to work and his warm, personable nature. “I spent many days with John Joe when stewarding Connacht GAA matches in different venues. It was always an enjoyable role, John Joe would keep the craic going. May his friendly soul rest in peace,” one condolence read.

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“John Joe was a man of the land, I'll always remember this about him, along with the spark in his smile,” said another. “John Joe worked for many years with Leitrim County Council where he was a loyal member of staff. He was always good humoured, with a hint of mischief mixed in,” another recalled.

Funeral Mass for John Joe took place on Monday, February 2, in St Patrick’s Church, Drumshanbo, followed by burial in the new cemetery.

He was also an active member of the IFA and, last year, was presented with an honorary life membership by IFA president Francie Gorman in recognition of his contribution and commitment to the organisation and to Leitrim farming. John Joe served as Leitrim’s sheep representative on the national committee.

Another condolence on RIP.ie wrote, “John Joe was a man steeped in his local community, who was on hand to play an active and valuable role, whether it was in developing sporting facilities for the next generation, manning entrance gates.

“Acting as umpire or sideline official, raising funds, attending meetings, promoting local events and festivals, all with good humour and a pleasant word and plenty of banter that we all enjoyed. So many people will miss his pleasant company that gave us all a lift.”

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