Passing of retired Mayo garda Maurice Dowling

The death has occurred of Maurice Dowling, 143 Chestnut Grove, Castlebar, and formerly of Ardfert, Co. Kerry.

A retired member of An Garda Síochána, he died peacefully at Mayo University Hospital yesterday after a short illness.

During his garda career, he served in Ballina, Balla and Castlebar and was held in very high regard by his colleagues in the force.

Widely popular in the community, he was actively involved in the Castlebar International Four Days Walks and Castlebar Athletics Club for many years.

He had a wonderful singing voice and was a member of a number of choirs over the years.

Predeceased by his parents Bertie and Lena and his sister Sarah Fitzgerald, he is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife Patsy and family Helena Shanahan (Dublin), Francis (New York), Trisha Ramkelawon (Derby, UK), Mossie (Tipperary), Bertie (Ballyheane), his sister Sheila Keane (Kerry), son-in-law Colm, daughters-in-law Jackie, Maggie, and Geraldine, 19 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, nephews, nieces, neighbours, relatives and friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the Dowling family on their loss.

Reposing at his residence in Chestnut Grove, Castlebar, tomorrow (Tuesday) from 5 to 7 p.m. for family, neighbours and close friends, with private removal on Wednesday at 1.15 p.m. to the Church of the Holy Rosary, Castlebar, for Funeral Mass at 2 p.m. (via Spencer Street).

Maurice will be laid to rest afterwards in the New Cemetery, Castlebar.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.