Mayo community mourns the death of army stalwart John Blehein

The village of Moygownagh came to a standstill today (Tuesday, February 10) at midday, as friends, family, and the wider community came together to mourn the death of John Blehein in St Cormac’s Church, Moygownagh.  

John Blehein of Carne, Moygownagh, Ballina, passed away suddenly on Friday, February 6. 

The sheer number of people offering their condolences to John’s family was a testament to the regard in which he was held.  

Fr Tony Gillespie opened the mass, expressing the ‘deep shock and sadness’ that has come over the local community in recent days. 

“John’s easy and friendly nature, his positive words, his great sense of humour were qualities that left people at ease. John was very involved in the community here and in the parish his whole life.” He said. 

Fr Gillespie  went on to express the deep influence that John had on so many people.

“We can all truly say how grateful and thankful we are to have known the life and the goodness, kindness, and joy that he shared with so many people.”

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Following this, the first and second readings were read, and the gifts were then brought forward. 

Seanie brought forward rosary beads, showcasing John’s deep devotion to his faith.

Tom brought forward the army medals representing John’s long, distinguished service in the defence force. Breege brought forward John’s hi-vis running jacket, representing John’s love of running. Siobhan brought forward John’s dancing shoes, representing his love of set dancing and being the life and soul of the party.

Megan brought a dog lead representing John’s love of dogs. Cormac brought forward his Mayo cap, representing John’s love of Mayo football throughout his whole life. John brought forward a picture of John marching in the New York St Patrick's Day parade. Turf was also brought forward, symbolising John’s love of the land. Eoin and Maeve brought forward photos of his family to represent John’s devotion to his family.

John served in the Irish Army for 38 years, including two terms on peacekeeping missions with the United Nations.

Following communion, John’s friend Mark Murphy spoke fondly of his time serving alongside him.

“John served proudly in the Defence Forces for 38 years.  He completed two overseas peacekeeping deployments with the UN in Lebanon and Kosovo.

“In recognition of his years of dedication and exemplary service, in early 23, John was awarded the meritorious promotion to the rank of Corporal. This was something that John was extremely proud of, and for those of us who knew him, we were also very proud, as this was so well deserved.”

Mark spoke fondly of John’s values, which he saw throughout his time of serving alongside John.

“Three of the values we have within the Defence Forces are respect, loyalty and selflessness. John was a shining example of each one of these every minute of every day. 

“So it is with a deep sadness that I am standing here before you today, but I also have an immense feeling of pride and honour to say these few words on behalf of everyone who has ever served with John.”

Following Mark’s words, John’s son Diarmaid shared fond memories of his father throughout the years. 

“Dad said the two best things he ever did were join the army and marry our mother, Maeve. Their personalities complemented each other in a way. As someone said to me last night, one was a header, the other, the leveller,” he said. 

Diarmaid went on to share fond memories of his dad’s love of dancing and high energy.

“One lady told us that ‘when you had a set with John, you didn't have a second’” he said.

“Another told us of her recent first experience of being his dance partner, which, after much spinning, ended with his parting words, ‘I’ll make a good dancer of you yet’”

Diarmaid concluded his eulogy by expressing his hope that his father would be reunited with his mother. 

“We only hope he’s in heaven right now with Mam and his departed loved ones. Probably dancing a set. John has not gone from us; he’s only gone before us.” 

John will be deeply missed by his heartbroken, loving sons Eoin, Diarmaid and Cormac, sisters Mary and Breege, daughter-in-law Laura, granddaughters Maeve and Moira, sister-in-law, brother-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

May he rest in peace.