Tributes to retired Mayo County Council engineer on his passing

The death of Noel Burke, Cloughboley, Manulla, Castlebar, and formerly of Greeve, Breaffy, Castlebar, is widely mourned.

He died peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff in Mayo Hospice, Castlebar, surrounded by his loving family.

A retired member of the engineering staff of Mayo County Council, he was held in high regard by everybody who knew him.

A keen golfer, he served as Men's Captain at Castlebar Golf Club in 2017.

Warm tributes are being paid to the deceased on social media.

One stated: "Every community needs a Noel Burke, he did so much for Ballyvary.

"He will never be forgotten. He was always so pleasant and had a lovely smile."

Another said: "He was a wealth of knowledge and a true gentleman."

A further tribute observed: "Working with Noel was a privilege, and I always remember his helpful manner and guidance."

Councillor Cyril Burke extended his condolences to the bereaved family.

"Noel was always a pleasure to deal with in the council. He as extremely competent and efficient," he said.

A minute's silence was observed at the monthly Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District meeting on Wednesday as a mark of respect by Noel Burke's former colleagues, councillors and staff.

Cathaoirleach Councillor Damien Ryan described how Mr. Burke had given unparalleled and excellent service to the local authority, proposing a minute's silence as a mark of respect.

Councillor Gerry Murray recalled how Noel Burke had a great working relationship with elected members and council staff, and problems brought to him would be resolved in a short space of time.

It had been a privilege to work with him.

A 'total gentleman' is how Councillor Michael Burke summed him up.

Municipal district head Padraic Flanagan joined in the expressions of sympathy to the Burke family on behalf of the council staff locally and across the county.

Noel is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife Mary, family Brian, Naoise, Dierdre and Rìona, sisters Mary (Mongan) and Breege (Griffin), sons-in-law Denis (Gallagher) and Jon (Rodgers), daughter-in-law Sara (Armstrong), brother-in-law Michael (Mongan), grandchildren Ailbhe, Den, Joe and step-grandchild Alex, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

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

He was pre-deceased by his parents Paul and Tess, brother Liam, sister-in-law Catherine, brother-in-law Eamonn and niece Aoife.

Noel will repose in Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, this evening (Wednesday) from 5.30 with removal at 7 p.m. to his residence.

Removal from his residence on Thursday morning at 10.45 a.m. for Requiem Mass at 11.30 a.m. in St. Joseph’s Church, Keelogues, Ballyvary.

Noel will be laid to rest afterwards in Keelogues Cemetery.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.