A poignant farewell to Mayo businessman Pat O'Malley
A cloud of sadness descended on Balla this week following the untimely death of Pat O'Malley of Dooros, writes Claire McNamara.
The well-known businessman, whose family operate the Blue Thunder restaurant chain, died suddenly last Sunday morning, and his passing evoked an immense sense of loss in the central Mayo town and further afield.
Large crowds gathered in solidarity today for his Requiem Mass, a testimony to the huge regard in which he was held.
Symbols brought to the altar representing a life well lived were his biro, rosary beads, photobook of his grandchildren, passport, cycling helmet, Balla jersey and a Blue Thunder bag.
In his homily, Fr. Denis Carney, chief celebrant, assisted by Fr. Tony King and Fr. Michael Gormally, spoke about how life is full of uncertainty and none of us know what tomorrow will bring.
He stated: "Death in Pat's case came like a bolt out of the blue, with no chance to say goodbye to his loved ones.
"And with sudden death, there is a great sense of shock and disbelief for a lot of people in the community, but most especially for the immediate family and close friends.
"Pat's death has brought great sorrow, sadness and shock to Marian and family as well as the extended family.
"At ten o'clock last Saturday night, Pat was having one of his favourite dishes - ice cream. But, sadly, by breakfast the following morning, Pat's life had ended. It's nearly impossible to believe and it brings home to us once again how fragile our life can be.
"There are no guarantees, the next breath cannot be assured or taken for granted by any of us. Death can come like a "thief in the night", at the moment we least expect.
"When death came calling to Pat O'Malley last Sunday morning, he stood ready and anyone who knew him knew that.
"Pat has lived a good life of love, goodness, faith, friendship, neighbourliness and kindness over his life.
"Born in Louisburgh, looking down on Roonagh Pier and the beautiful landscape of Clare Island, Pat was the only boy and eldest of a family of four.
"At a very early age, he showed his first inklings of business potential, as he brought fish from Roonagh to Louisburgh to sell.
"The opportunity came up to purchase Blue Thunder in Claremorris, and he subsequently expanded the business to Westport and Castlebar, which turned into a very successful business.
"When he retired, he left the business in the safe hands of his family. Pat was totally committed to anything he took on and he always saw the positive in his own life and in business.
"He believed in having a good life/work balance, and ensured he had time for his family and his holidays, which he enjoyed immensely.
"Pat's faith meant everything to him, and he never went to bed without making time for his prayers, particularly his prayer of devotion to Padre Pio.
"He nurtured his faith every day and encouraged those around him to do the same.
"Our prayer for today is that Pat is now at peace in the company of the Lord."
The moving music and song created an ethereal atmosphere that captured the hearts of all those present.
With grief in his voice, Pat's son, Pascal, spoke of the family's immeasurable loss and thanked everyone for journeying with them over the past number of days.
"Dad was a wonderful father and even more so a wonderful friend. He was extremely hard working, determined and compassionate towards everyone.
"He taught us many things. He gave me the ability to realise that if you really put your mind to something, that anything is possible and never be afraid to try anything.
"When we were young, dad had a great love of cars. In his later years, nothing brought him more joy than getting out on his bike for a cycle and stopping to chat with those he would meet along the way.
"Dad's love for us was unconditional and this is something I will cherish from his character. His kindness and his generosity towards me, mam, Joane and Karen is something I'll remember forever, and to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him."
As the ceremony concluded, the haunting lament 'The Parting Glass' led the coffin down the church aisle.
As the funeral cortége left outside St Cronan's Church, the hazy autumn sun peeped through the low-lying clouds.
Traffic paused and, in a collective mark of respect, motorists and mourners, and those just passing by, stopped and blessed themselves as his remains made the short, poignant journey to his final resting place.
Pat is sadly missed by his beloved wife Marian, and family Joane Byrne (Balla), Karen Ginnelly (Glenisland) and Pascal (Balla).
He is also deeply mourned by sons-in-law Tom and Eamon, daughter-in-law Angelika, grandchildren Dean, Emma, Molly, Katie and Emily, sisters Maureen (Westport), Margaret (Louisburgh) and Noreen (Westport), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews and nieces, relatives, great neighbours and friends, to whom sympathy is extended on their loss.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.