Obituaries

JOE CRONIN R.I.P.

THE death took place at Mallow General Hospital on Wednesday, January 17 of Joe Cronin, Lavally.

A former employee of the Borden & Co, Joe is predeceased by his wife, Nora, and survived by his son Patrick, daughters Nora May (Crowley) and Joan (Cronin Jenks), relations, neighbours and friends.

Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Resurrection at 2pm on Monday, January 22 followed by burial in St. Gobnait’s Cemetery.

To the Cronin family we extend our sincere condolence.

JOHN BUTLER R.I.P.

THE death took place at Mallow General Hospital of John Butler on Sunday, January 14.

From Rose Court and formerly of Tuckeys Hill, John came from a well known Mallow family. He was a retired sergeant, 4th Battalion, Collins Barracks, Cork, and served in the Congo (1960-61), Cyprus (1964) and Lebanon (1978). In his early years he also acted as bouncer at well known Cork City dance venues the Cameo and Arcadia as well as operating the well known J.B. Chipper in Douglas Street in the city.

During his army career John was also very much involved in sporting affairs and played in the All Ireland Army team in both football and hurling.

During his funeral Mass a ‘Celebration of The Life of John’ pamphlet was available to those present in the Church which carried ten photographs of the popular Mallow man from his childhood up to recent times. A poignant poem, written by Sarah Butler was read by his granddaughter, Karen Butler, while Danielle Butler sang ‘ You Raise Me Up’.

His son Alan, in his eulogy, spoke lovingly of his father and reflected on his busy life both at home and abroad.

One of John’s favourite songs, Wanderin Star from the musical Paint Your Wagon and sung by Lee Marvin, was played over the sound system as the tri-coloured coffin bearing his UN Blue Beret was shouldered from the Church. John received official military honours with many of his retired UN colleagues also present as a final farewell.

At his graveside at St. Gobnait’s Cemetery, a lone piper played while brandy was handed out to those present as a final salute to the 78 year old.

John is predeceased by his brother Eddie, sisters Mary and Carmel and survived by his wife Phyllis, son Alan (California), sister Tina (McSweeney) Riverstown, Cork, brother Oliver (Hong Kong), relatives and friends.

To the Butler family we express our sincere sympathy.