Mayo mourns passing of popular businessman Tony Walkin

The death has taken place of Tony Walkin, Creagh Road, Ballinrobe, and formerly of Ballina.

He died peacefully at his residence surrounded by his family after a illness bravely fought.

The deceased was widely known and respected in Mayo business circles and ran Walkin's Gift Shop at Main Street, Ballinrobe.

He also operated a travel agency, Walkin Travel, for many years and was involved in local tourism promotion.

A lifelong member of Ballinrobe Musical Society, he was a former player and official of Ballinrobe GAA Club.

A wonderful community man, he was a long-serving member of the Ballinrobe Church Choir and also served with the local Tidy Towns Committee.

Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Kitty, he is deeply mourned by his wife Irene and family: Mary, Paddy (USA), Paula (Fermanagh), Elaine, Peter (Dunmore), Tony and Mark.

He is also survived by his sister Maura (Ballaghaderreen), brothers John (Ballina), PJ (Ballina), Gerry (UK), Shamus (Ballina), Eamon (Ballina) and Vincent (Doc, Dublin), sons-in-law John, James, Kevin, daughters-in-law Mary Ann, Joan, Denise and Marie, sisters-in-law, 13 adored grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.

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

Warm tributes are being paid to him on the condolences page of the death notices website, RIP.ie.

One stated: "He was a great man, full of chat, witty and always ready for the Mayo GAA banter. His involvement with Ballinrobe Tidy Towns brought great improvements to the town, he was always willing to roll up his sleeves and get stuck in. It was a pleasure to have met and worked with Tony."

"He was very friendly and welcoming every time I was in the shop. May he rest in peace," another said.

"We will miss Tony, but knowing his spirit lives on," a further tribute stated.

His remains will be reposing at his residence (F31 H308) on Saturday from 4.00 to 7 p.m.

Removal from his residence on Sunday morning to St Mary’s Church, Ballinrobe, for Funeral Mass at 11.30 a.m. with burial afterwards in New Cemetery, Ballinrobe.

May his gentle soul rets in peace.