Sadness in Mayo following death of popular man who was 'so lovely and kind'

Tributes have poured in following the sad death of popular Mayo man Noel Burke, who passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff in Mayo Hospice, Castlebar, surrounded by his loving family on Monday April 7, 2025.

Noel, late of Cloughboley, Manulla, Castlebar, co Mayo, and formerly of Greeve, Breaffy, Castlebar, has been described by those who knew him as "a true gentleman who was always a pleasure to meet". Noel was a staff engineer with Mayo County Council for many years, working predominately in the Ballina Municipal District. 

Ballina councillor Annie Mae Reape was among the many sitting Mayo councillors who have paid tribute to Mr Burke. 

"My deepest sympathy to Mary and children on the sad passing of Noel.. Noel was a brilliant Engineer and progressed so many projects during his time us with in Ballina MD. He had a great sense of humour and always in good form. May he rest in peace," said Cllr Reape in a condolence post. 

Ballina TD and Minister Dara Calleary also paid tribute to Mr Burke: "My deepest sympathies to Mary and family. It was a pleasure to have known Noel - he was a superb official who gave selfless service to developing Mayo. May he rest in peace."

Mr Burke is pre-deceased by his parents Paul and Tess, brother Liam, sister-in-law Catherine, brother-in-law Eamonn and niece Aoife.

He is deeply regretted by his heartbroken wife Mary, children Brian, Naoise, Dierdre and Rìona, sisters Mary (Mongan) and Breege (Griffin), sons-in-law Denis (Gallagher) and Jon (Rodgers), daughter-in-law Sara (Armstrong), brother-in-law Michael (Mongan), grandchildren Ailbhe, Den, Joe and step-grandchild Alex, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Heartfelt condolences have been left on RIP.ie, from those who knew and fondly remembered Noel, with one mourner writing:

"Mary and l extend our deepest condolences to you Mary and Burke family on the sad passing of Noel.You are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. We have very fond memories of Noel from our UCG days. A lovely kind gentle man. Always in good form and up for The Craic. He was a member of our Class soccer team who won CTM cup in the day. Great memories. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."

Another wrote: "Sincere condolences to Mary, children and extended Burke families on the sad passing of Noel. He was a wonderful neighbour and community man and his engaging charm, humour and wise counsel will be sadly missed! May his gentle soul rest in peace."

While a former colleague wrote; "Deepest Sympathy to Mary and all Noel's family on his sad passing. Noel was a wonderful colleague in UCG and later in the IPA who brought fun to our student days. Ar dheis Dé go raibh anam."

Funeral Arrangements

Noel will repose in Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlebar, F23 XY63 on Wednesday, April 9, from 5.30pm with removal at 7pm to his residence.

Removal from his residence on Thursday morning at 10.45am for Requiem Mass at 11.30am in St. Joseph’s Church, Keelogues, Ballyvary, Co.Mayo.

Noel will be laid to rest afterwards in Keelogues Cemetery.