Fr Eamon Concannon to be laid to rest

THE death has taken place of Canon Fr Eamon Concannon, Ballyhowley, Knock, and formerly of Kilcun, Kiltimagh. Fr Eamon slipped away as gently as he lived at the Claremount Nursing Home in Claremorris on Friday. He was in his 91st year.

During his long life in the ministry, he served in Inis Óirr, Tuam, Roundfort and Burrishoole parishes where he had an incredible rapport with people of all ages. He radiated goodness, kindness and compassion and time spent in his company was always inspiring and memorable.

Long after he could have retired and taken things easy, he was still active in the parish life of Knock, always helping out and rendering kind deeds along life’s journey. Days spent with family members at Mayo matches and meeting old friends along the way were cherished by Fr Eamon.

Tom Neary, former Chief Steward at Knock Shrine, said Fr Eamon was always pleasant and unassuming and a great man to have known: “Throughout his life as a priest, he was a good and faithful servant of the Church and the people in all the parishes where he ministered, kind, caring and helpful. He had many friends, a real gentleman. Since his retirement, he worked as a Chaplain at Knock Shrine where he provided a valuable service to pilgrims.”

Tributes have been pouring in for Fr Eamon from around the country and some from as far away as Alaska and Australia, all wrapped in the fondest of memories and appreciation for an absolute gentleman.

Reposing takes place at the Marian Funeral Home, Knock, on Tuesday evening from 5.30pm with removal at 8pm to the Church of St John The Baptist Knock. The Funeral Mass is on Wednesday at 11.00am followed by burial in Knock cemetery.

Fr Eamon will be sadly missed by his sister-in-law Catherine Concannon (Galway), nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, Archbishop Francis Duffy, retired Archbishop Michael Neary and all the priests of the Tuam Diocese, relatives, neighbours and friends.