Paddy Veldon

THE passing of Paddy Veldon from Newtown, Claremorris, saw Claremorris bid farewell to a very familiar face in the town and parish. Paddy was part and parcel of life around Claremorris for many years and his death evoked genuine sadness and regret in the district.

Paddy was one of a family of five and was predeceased by his brother John (Claremorris), a retired garda who won an All Ireland minor medal with Mayo in 1953 and Peter who operated a successful business in Letterfrack for many years.

Like so many others from this region, Paddy worked for several years in Claremorris Bacon Factory. Operated by the O’Mara family from Limerick, it gave great employment throughout the hinterland for many decades and, at one stage, employed around 400. During those years Paddy made many friends and was held in the highest regard by all his colleagues.

Blessed with a great sense of community, Paddy threw himself wholeheartedly behind whatever committees he was associated with in the region. Chief among them was the local Agricultural Show of which he was a member for decades.

In the days leading up to the annual August Show, Paddy always looked forward to joining his many friends as they diligently prepared the “Racecourse” for the big day. And when Show Day came around, Paddy was always a prominent steward, ensuring that everything ran smoothly. He was in his element on such occasions and loved to meet up with the rest of the committee at the end of the day, pleased as punch that another Show had lived up to the great standard and reputation of Claremorris down the years.

He was also a member of the local Red Cross and rendered loyal and dedicated service to the voluntary association during his years associated with the local branch.

Paddy was, of course, synonymous with the game of 25. He loved cards and, together with his brother Tom, was a regular at many of the local weekly games in Claremorris, Knock, Brickens, Balla and Manulla.

Card playing was a central part of his life and, as one friend said, “he lived for the cards.” Week after week and year after year, the Veldon brothers were at the heart of the 25 card game circuit in this region. When Paddy died, it was like losing a member of the family for so many of them.

Paddy had a kind word and warm smile for everyone. He was one of nature’s gentlemen and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

It came as no surprise when a pack of cards was placed in the coffin in the funeral home. Fr Peter Gannon, PP, was the chief celebrant at the Requiem Mass and he was assisted by Fr John Cosgrove, PP, Castlebar.

Paddy is survived by his brother Tom, sister Mae O’Brien, in-laws, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and many friends.