Patrickneverforgothisroots despiteworkingoutoftown
PATRICK (Pat) McCartan, Fancourt, Balbriggan, who died recently, never forgot his Dundalk roots, and was a regular visitor to the town, despite a long working career which took him away from home.
He spent 46 years with Wavin, becoming manager of the plant in Balbriggan, and spending time in England at their factory in Preston.
Pat passed away peacefully in Sunhill nursing home, Termonfeckin, on 18 January, 2018.
Aged 85, he was originally from ‘Glendine’, Mount Avenue, Dundalk, one of three children, and only son, of the late Jack and May McCartan.
After attending St. Mary’s College, he went to the GNR as a ‘gentleman worker’, working for free, while serving his time.
However, the death of his father when Pat was aged just 17, meant he had to find a paying job.
He started with Wavin in Balbriggan, rising through the ranks to become manager.
During his time with the company, he was transferred to Preston, where he remained for 10 years, until returning home to finish his career in Balbriggan.
Pat married Teresa Rankin, from Dundalk, and although they had no family of their own, they kept Boxer dogs, which were like children to them.
He had a huge interest in rail- ways, and travelled the world to see different steam engines.
Motorcycle racing was another major hobby, while Pat followed his beloved Dundalk FC closely, and was a regular attender at Oriel Park where he was well-known and liked.
While in England, he went to see Manchester Utd playing. The late, great George Best was his idol.
Motor car racing was another interest he had.
Pat was predeceased by his wife, Teresa, seven years ago; and also, by his sister Úna, who passed away in 2014.
He is survived by his sister, Gertie Gernon, Louth Village; brother-in-law, Stephen (Steppie) Gernon; nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.
Pat spent the last five-anda-half years in Sunhill nursing home, and the family is grateful for the wonderful care and attention he received there.
His remains were removed from Sunhill to McNally’s funeral home, and from there, were taken to St. Peter & Paul’s Church, Balbriggan, where the funeral Mass was celebrated by parish priest, Fr. Eugene Taaffe.
He was assisted by Fr. Richard Walsh, a great friend of Pat’s.
The readings were given by niece Valerie Donohoe and nephew Alan Wilkie; while the prayers of the faithful were led by grandnephew Dónal Gernon, nieces Linda Finn and Vicky Lennon and grandnephew Darren Gernon.
Gifts symbolising Pat’s life were brought to the altar by Steppie and Stephen Gernon. These included a football, picture of a racing motorcycle, and model of a Boxer dog.
Josephine Gernon and Elaine, from the nursing home, participated in the offertory procession.
Beautiful music enhanced the ceremony.
Afterwards, Pat was buried in St. Peter & Paul’s cemetery alongside his wife, Teresa.
The Month’s Mind Mass takes place in St. Malachy’s (Friary) Church, Dundalk, at 6.15pm on Saturday, 17 February, 2018.