Death of retired Castlebar veterinary surgeon

THE death has taken place of Mr. Peter Ryan, M.R.C.V.S., Station Road, Castlebar.

A native of Carrabawn, Westport, he was one of the county town's best loved and most respected personalities.

A dedicated and caring veterinary surgeon, he was widely known throughout west Mayo for his professionalism and courteous nature. 

In his youth, he was an outstanding sportsman and was a member of the Westport Town side that lifted the Connaught Cup on April 1, 1945, with a 2-1 over St. Mary's, Sligo, in the final. The team also included such legendary figures as Pierce Gill, John Sheridan, Noel Gill, Eddie Mayock, Broddie Gartland and Benny McNally.

He picked up his second Connaught Cup medal in 1949 when the provincial title was secured by Westport United with a 3-1 win over Galway Rovers in the decider.

It was the third time in the space of eight years that the crown had come to Westport and Peter Ryan was one of the goalscorers in the final, the others being Stephen Walsh and Willie McGreal, although the hero of the day was goalkeeper Jim Ruddy who made a string of outstanding saves.

The deceased was also an accomplished rugby player and won numerous titles with Westport Rugby Club. 

He was a member of Castlebar Golf Club for many years and played the game with skill and assurance.

Most of all, however, he will be remembered as a true gentleman.

He was predeceased some time ago by his wife, Geraldine, to whom he was hugely dedicated.    

He is survived by his sisters-in-law Sheelagh and Marine, brother-in-law John and many loving nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces and extended family and friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.

His remains will be reposing at Coady's Funeral Home, Castlebar, on Friday evening at 5.30 p.m., with removal at 7 p.m. to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar.

Requiem Mass for the repose of his soul takes place on Saturday at 2.30 p.m. with burial afterwards in in Aughavale Cemetery, Westport.