Don Connellan remembered as a “hero”

The late Don Connellan was remembered as a man of integrity who gave great hope to others.

Fr Martin Whelan, parish priest of Moycullen, stated that Don inspired people in his work with An Garda Síochána, on the field, the sideline and in his everyday life.

“I firmly believe that the greatest task of any father or coach, friend or brother is to instil courage. It is one thing to be brave, to be courageous. It is quite another thing to encourage, to make heroes, to convince people Noli Timere (Latin for do not be afraid).

“Don Connellan was such a man. Don is our hero because he made us heroes. Don possessed that heavy quiet that commands. It is one thing to triumph on the pitch. It is another thing to triumph in life for the sole purpose of life is to love and to be loved.

“In so short a time, Don raised hearts and minds to the heights and depths of what it is to be a human being. The agony and the ecstacy. To win graciously and to suffer defeat with dignity. Above all to be loved and to love,” Fr. Whelan noted.

Don’s brother in law Paul described the former Roscommon footballer as a leader on and off the field of play who “set the tone” for those around him.

Paul also noted his brother in law as a man who valued loyalty above all else.

“Throughout the multiple stories and conversations we have shared in the last few days and hours about Don, loyalty has been the constant and most used value and word that has come up. Don valued loyalty more than anything, in sport, in work and in life.” 

“Don was a great man. He made our lives sublime. You have departed but you have left footprints for all of us to follow in the sands of time. For this we are grateful.” 

Paul described Don as a family man and someone who was at his happiest when with those he loved.

“Linda was Don’s perfect match. Radiant, beautiful and outgoing. Linda became Don’s soulmate and the best friend. Don became more complete around her and the relationship was one of humour, loyalty and love.” 

Members of An Garda Síochána laid the tricolour on Don’s coffin prior to the commencement of the funeral mass.

Members of Don’s family brought up gifts including a gaelic football and a Kilmore jersey. A family photo, a prayer book, a Garda badge, a golf club and a fishing tackle box were brought to the alter. Don enjoyed a fishing trip with his loved ones the day before he passed away.

Don is survived by his wife Linda, sons Eoin and Conor and is sadly missed by family, relatives, neighbours and friends.