CYCLIST LOSES BATTLE FOR LIFE
Fermoy man, Derek O’Leary lost his battle for life on Friday, July 25 after having sustained serious injuries in a cycling accident, which took place on Thursday, July 17. His death has shocked the Fermoy area, his family and many friends from Fermoy Juvenile GAA Club. He was buried on Monday last, July 28 in Kilcrumper New Cemetery.
The accident occurred in the Coolmakee area, in the vicinity of Fermoy Golf Club. It is not known what caused the accident, but a factor could have been the very steep hill he is believed to have been on when the accident happened. He was taken to Cork University Hospital.
Derek was a keen cyclist and he was a former treasurer of the Fermoy GAA juvenile section for over three years. He was also very involved with the U14 ladies football team, a team that his daughter played for, all of whom wore their club outfits in a fitting guard of honour at St Patrick’s Church for his removal and funeral on Monday.
Matt O’Callaghan, former chairman of the Fermoy GAA juvenile section at the time that Derek was treasurer, reflects on the man and friend who passed away so unexpectedly, leaving everyone absolutely devastated.
“He was a true gentleman, a fantastic guy and an extremely committed family man. He never got excited about anything; if there was any problem he just solved it. He volunteered with our club although he had no GAA background”, Mr. O’Callaghan reminisces.
His family was also very involved with Kilworth Tennis Club, with his wife, Katherine, being an assistant tennis coach for the club. His funeral saw a large attendance with family, friends, relatives and GAA colleagues present for the occasion.
Derek died peacefully in the arms of his wife, Katherine, and in the presence of their children, Ben, Lynn and Eoghan. He is also deeply missed by his mother Margaret, brothers Raymond, Brendan, Paul, Declan, sister Valerie, relatives and friends.
The Avondhu extends its sincere sympathy to the family. May he rest in peace.
Published:
Thursday 31st July 7:09pm
