Shockandsadnessatsudden deathofmuch-lovedNiall
THE sudden and unexpected death of Niall (Niddler) McCabe on 13 April, 2018, at his home at Seaview, Blackrock, left the local community and his wide circle of friends in shock and deeply saddened, with a feeling of heartfelt sorrow for his wife and children and close family, especially his mother Mary.
Niall, given the pet name Niddler by an uncle, was a gregarious and amiable individual who struck up friendships and acquaintanceships naturally wherever he went.
He loved people and they in turn had a mutual affection for him with his ever-present good humour, and a caring nature to help out others. This led him to volunteer as a driver with the Louth Hospice to transport patients to and from hospital.
He was the third last of 11 children of Mary and the late Gerry McCabe. He was also predeceased by his sister Caroline.
Niall went to Blackrock National School and continued his education in Dundalk CBS as well as Dundalk Technical School.
At a young age he emigrated to England to work. He remained there for a time before returning home. He suffered from a heart condition which restricted him.
Niall met Catriona Coakley from Sportsmanshall, Dundalk 26 years ago, and two years later they married.
They set up home in Muirhevnamor before living in Louth Village and then moved 18 years ago to Seaview, Cocklehill, Blackrock, only a couple of doors away from the family home in Saint Fursey’s Terrace where he was born and reared.
The couple were blessed with two daughters Vanessa and Stephanie. Family was all-important to Niall and to ensure everything was fine.
He was always attentive to his mother and liked to meet up with his siblings to likewise make sure everything was all right with them. He adored his grand-daughter Hazel.
He was very proud of his home and gained pleasure from doing improvements. He especially enjoyed painting.
Niall enjoyed daily walks. He liked a game of golf, and his other hobbies included playing darts and pool.
Most of all, he looked forward to meeting up with friends, chatting and sharing craic and having a laugh.
He had a knack to get on with everybody with his ready smile and cheery greeting. It didn’t matter where he was. If he was away or on day out he always ended up talking to somebody or knew somebody.
This was why his passing evoked such shock and disbelief. He betrayed no signs other than he was feeling good to do painting in the house the days prior to his death and was out the night before in his usual good spirits, enjoying a couple of drinks with friends.
His popularity and the regard with which his family is held were reflected in the large crowds who attended at his home and obsequies. His family are very grateful to the paramedics, Gardaí and doctor-on-call who attended to him.
Niall is very sadly missed by his heartbroken wife, Catriona, daughters, Vanessa and Stephanie, mother, Mary, grand-daughter, Hazel, brothers and sisters, Mickey, Geraldine (Mayo), Seán, Loretta (Longford), Majella, Bernie, Claire, Anita and Edel (Canada), brothers- and sisters in-law, uncle Bensie, aunt Ann, nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family relatives, wonderful neighbours and friends.
He reposed at home from the Monday and was taken then to Saint Fursey’s Church, Haggardstown on the Wednesday. Father Brian White CC celebrated Requiem Mass and delivered the eulogy.
Nephews and nieces brought up the gifts to the altar that symbolised his life. These included a golf club, a betting slip, a lotto slip, a TV remote control and a family photo. They also did the Readings and led the Prayers of the Faithful.
Brothers Mickey and Seán presented the Offertory Gifts.
Brother-in-law Declan Quaile, at the end, paid a tribute to Niall.
Burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.
Month’s Mind Mass is on Sunday, 13 May, in St. Fursey’s Church, Haggardstown at 11am.