Western contractor given a fitting farewell

THE town of Dunmore in north Galway was shocked last month by the tragic passing of Gerard Greene.

Gerard ( was well known in the farming and vintage machinery communities of Galway and Mayo, where he undertook contracting works and plant hire.

He was a larger than life character, ever ready to lend a helping hand to friends, neighbours and strangers alike.

Having bought his first new tractor and slurry tanker aged 19, Gerard worked tirelessly to grow his contracting fleet. He took great pride in his work, and with the backing of valued and loyal customers, added to his line-up year by year. Gerard was an active member of the Dunmore District Vintage Club, where he was often seen working on his restored David Brown 990.

However, his pride and joy was a Case International 1455 straight piped and weighted all around for competition tractor pulling. Tractors travelled from near and far to provide a guard of honour on his final journey through Garrafrauns. His Case International 1455 led the hearse on the short journey to the cemetery, with the whistle from the straight exhaust cutting a lonely tune.

Gerard is survived and dearly loved by his parents Michael and Ursula, sisters Orlagh, Eimear and Amber, brothers Ethan and JP, and his beloved girlfriend Sarah. May he rest in peace.