Well-known Mayo man sorely missed in local community

Paddy Solan, Ballykinave, Claremorris, who died last week at the Mayo Hospice in Castlebar, was well known in farming circles around the Claremorris region down the decades.

Paddy, who was among the senior members of the local community, spent many years as an employee of Claremorris Bacon Factory during an era when it was the main employer in the town.

He made many lifelong friends during that time and enjoyed meeting up and socializing with them in town in the years that were to follow.

Paddy was a regular at the Saturday evening Mass in Claremorris for many years and his favourite place was always at the back of the church and sharing chats with friends after Mass.

Teresa Fitzgerald was among those joining in the tributes to Paddy. “He was a lovely friendly person who enjoyed many summer evenings sitting outside his home and who always made time to have a word with everyone who passed by.”

Frank Clarke, Ballindine, said he was saddened to hear of the passing of an old friend. “I worked with Paddy in Claremorris Bacon Company. He was a true gentleman and a gifted butcher.”

Helena Brady (nee Slattery) said Paddy was a big part of the village.

“We all have great memories of him from giving us lifts to the bus, killing our pigs, and his kind chat about the village, the people and Mayo football. He will be greatly missed by us all.”

Jimmy Begley, Facefield, recalled many a great night of laughter and stories they had in Mick O’Brien’s Bar where Paddy always had a big smile and warm welcome for friends.

Reposing was at St Colman’s Funeral Home, Claremorris, with removal to St Colman’s Church. Following the funeral Mass celebrated by Fr Peter Gannon, PP, interment took place in St Colman’s Cemetery.

Paddy, who was predeceased by his wife Lil (née Kennedy), brothers, John, Joe and his sister Mary, will be sadly missed by his daughters Maura and Ann, sons-in-law Charlie and Declan, grandchildren Dan, Sarah, Grace, James and Shaun, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends.