County Roscommon businessman remembered as ‘loyal and generous’ pioneer

The late Ronan O'Conghaile, founder of the renowned Ardcarne Garden Centres, was remembered as "a loyal friend" and a "wonderful character" at his Funeral Mass in St. Michael's Church, Cootehall earlier today, Friday.

Mr O'Conghaile, Ardcarne, Boyle passed away peacefully at Sligo University Hospital surrounded by his family.

Founded in 1986, the family-run garden centre in Boyle grew from modest beginnings into one of the region’s most respected horticultural destinations, later opening an outlet in Roscommon Town.

In his eulogy, the late Mr Conghaile’s youngest son, Dónal ,reflected on his father's "life's work" at Ardcarne Garden Centre and how proud he was of the business today.

His father's pride in his family and his wife Marie, with whom he celebrated 50 years of marriage this year, were also highlighted.

Dónal spoke of the admiration he had for his father growing up. "Dad absolutely loved to talk, as he would say he would never tell a short story if he could make it a long one. Anytime I had to go with him as a child we wouldn't go five minutes without bumping into someone he knew."

His great passions in life were also recalled by his son. Whether it was his unbeaten tennis and table tennis streaks at Boyle Tennis Club or St. Jarlath's College, or offering his opinion using his refined wine pallet, he approached it all with a fully committed attitude. Since he retired three years ago, Mr O'Conaighle battled illness, and Dónal thanked everyone who cared for his father as well as all the blood donors.

Celebrating Mass of the Resurrection, Fr Brendan McDonagh PP read out some of the condolences left for Mr. O'Conghaile to paint a picture of the life he led. One read out by Fr McDonagh recalled the time Mr O'Conghaile gifted the person a voucher for Ardcarne Garden Centre upon their retirement. They stated: "I see from the many tributes to Ronan that this was typical of his exceptional and wonderful character."

Another read: "Ireland and especially County Roscommon are much the poorer because of Ronan's passing. His taste, his vision, his energy changed the world around him and will leave a lasting legacy among everyone who met him."

Mr O'Conghaile is deeply missed by his wife, Marie (née Corcoran); children, Niamh, Conor, and Donal, their partners Trevor and Jay; his granddaughters, Ailbhe and Caoimhe; brother, Padhraic; nephews, cousins, extended family, friends and the staff of Ardcarne Garden Centres.

Following his Funeral Mass he was laid to rest in Ardcarne Cemetery.