Westport mourns passing of former town mayor
THE death has taken place at Mayo University Hospital of Ollie Gannon, St. Patrick's Terrace, Cathair Na Mart, Westport.
The deceased, a much-loved and respected personality, served with distinction as Mayor of the former Westport Town Council on a number of occasions as a Fine Gael elected member. He was a member of the authority for 15 years.
A former employee of Allergan Pharmaceuticals, he was a lifelong member of Westport United, serving the club in a number of roles, including underage coach, a position in which he guided the club to numerous titles.
Westport United have paid a warm tributes to him tonight on their social media platforms.
He also contributed significantly to the development of underage soccer in the county through the Mayo Youths and Schoolboys League.
Paying tribute to him, the Minister for Social and Community Development, Michael Ring, extended his sympathy to the Gannon family on their loss.
Said the Minister: "Westport has lost a man who had tremendous community spirit, a man who served with distinction on the Westport Town Council for fifteen years, until its abolition in May 2014.“
“Ollie was an avid soccer supporter, having been a former Westport United, coach, committee member and chairman. He was hugely instrumental in developing and coaching the younger members. He was involved in the development of McConville Park for the local community.
“He was a true gentleman and a friend to the entire community in Westport and further afield.”
“Ollie was a loyal and personal friend of mine all my life and I will miss his banter, the laughs, the soccer discussions, his songs and his pleasant smile. I can only say that it was a deep privilege to have known Ollie and that is a sentiment that I share with many, many others.
"May his gentle soul rest in peace.”
The cathaoirleach of the West Mayo Municipal District, Councillor Brendan Mulroy, described Ollie as a true gentleman who always went out of his way to help others.
Predeceased by his father Bertie, brother Bertie and sister Phyllis, Ollie will be sadly missed by his loving mother Celsus, brothers James, Austin, Vinny, Jerome, Damien and Patrick, sister Maureen, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbours and his many friends, to whom sympathy is tendered.
His remains wil be reposing at Navin's Funeral Home, Westport, on Saturday, from 5 p.m. with removal to St. Mary's Church, Westport, at 7 p.m. to arrive at 7.15pm.
Requiem Mass takes place on Sunday at 12 noon with burial afterwards in Aughavale Cemetery.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.