Tom a craftsman devoted to family

TOM Baldwin, Slieve Foy Park, Muirhevnamor, Dundalk, who passed away in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital on 7 August, was a skilled craftsman, whose family and work were his main focus in life.

Aged 80, he was originally from Carrickmacross, and in 1957 met his future wife, Marie, in the Town Hall, Dundalk.

The couple were married later the same year, and afterwards moved to London, where they lived for six years before returning to Ireland and residing in Carrickmacross.

There, Tom worked as a painter/ decorator and cabinet-maker; before he and Marie moved to Birr in Co Offaly for a time.

Upon settling in Dundalk, he worked as a wood-turner, estab- lishing his own business; and Tom spent many hours in his workshop where he crafted all manner of items, from as small as bowls to garden furniture.

He liked nothing better than going to the woods with a chainsaw and cutting his own wood.

Tom was a perfectionist in his work, and able to put his hand to any task.

A real people person, he was big-hearted and generous by nature, and wouldn’t hesitate to help anyone in need.

He had a word for everyone, and loved to stop and chat.

Tom worked hard to support his family; and in his free time, he enjoyed attending the Dublin Horse Show.

Travel was another of his interests, and he travelled throughout Ireland, with Galway a favourite destination.

Tom is survived by his wife, Marie (nee Maguire); sons, Don and Paul; daughters, Linda and Veronica; brothers, John and Patrick; sisters, Mary and Joan; grandchildren, great-grandchild, nephews, nieces and other relatives and friends.

He was predeceased by his daughter, Brenda; son, Dermot; and sister, Frances.

His remains were removed to the Holy Family Church, where the funeral Mass was celebrated on 10 August by Fr Paddy Stanley.

At the start of the ceremony, a number of symbols of Tom’s life were brought to the altar.

These included a photograph of Tom and Marie, representing their 59 years of marriage; a handmade sign and bowl, depicting Tom’s craftsmanship; and a teddy bear, representing the love of his youngest grand-daughter, Eva.

The readings were given by grandson, Ronan Baldwin and daughter, Veronica Baldwin.

Linda Baldwin, daughter and Regina, daughter-in-law did the Offertory of the Gifts; while son, Paul Baldwin and grand-daughter, Laura Baldwin read Prayers of the Faithful.

Jessica Baldwin, grand-daughter sang a beautiful hymn.

The soloist was Susan Dixon, and music was provided by organist, Olivia Finnegan, and violinist, Evelyn Crawley.

At the end of the Mass, Tom’s daughter, Veronica, read a poem she wrote about what her father meant to her.

Burial took place afterwards in St Patrick’s Cemetery, Dowdallshill.

The Month’s Mind Mass will take place at 11am on 4 September next in the Holy Family Church.