The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Shock and sadness at the death of Ballinskelligs’ ‘kind soul’ Paddy
THE news of the death of Paddy Casey from Ballinskelligs has left the whole of South Kerry bereft, saddened and shocked according to his colleagues in South Kerry Development Partnership .
Everyone’s thoughts are with his wife Siobhan who has lost a loving husband, his children James, Paudie and Niamh who have lost a devoted father, said CEO of SKDP, Noel Spillane.
Paddy was a valued friend and much loved colleague to all his fellow staff member. In reacting to the news of Paddy’s death various work colleagues have described him to me as a ‘true gentleman’ , ‘lovely person’ ‘such a pleasant man’, ‘a kind soul’ and ‘the type of guy you would love to have at your kitchen table’.
“Paddy was extremely popular with all of his colleagues. His pleasant, easy-going and unassuming personality made him a character you could warm to very easily and quickly,” said Mr Spillane.
He started work with South Kerry Development Partnership as a Rural Social Scheme participant. His work-ethic and ability saw him progress to the role of Rural Social Scheme (RSS) Supervisor in September 2012. In this role Paddy would have worked with numerous community groups and his participants on the RSS Scheme.
In August 2014 Paddy took up an additional part time role of rural recreation officer and later still became the full-time recreation officer with SKDP.
“He was a pleasure to work with, one of the most conscientious people I have ever worked with. He brought a huge enthusiasm, work ethic and commitment to the role,” said Mr Spillane adding that Paddy developed fantastic relationships with landowners, farmers and community groups he worked with.
Paddy was from Ballinskelligs and aside from work he also gave to his community through his voluntary role with Ballinskelligs Inshore Rescue and with the local Comhchoiste group. Paddy was also involved with local marts and just last week was at Kenmare mart.
He had a passion for music and again was well-known by many in this regard playing with The Kingdom Ceílí band.
Mr Spillane summed up the sentiment of the community.
“We at SKDP are shocked by his untimely death as is everyone across South Kerry.”