The late Chris O’Dowd was a ‘true pillar’ of the GAA in County Roscommon

The death occurred on Tuesday, surrounded by his loving family, in the exceptional care of the doctors, nurses and staff of Roscommon Hospice, of Mr Christopher O'Dowd, Station Road, Carrick-on-Shannon.

A “true pillar” of Shannon Gaels GAA Club, his life was defined by a passion for Shannon Gaels that few could match.

Pre-deceased by his parents, Martin and Dee and brother, Raymond, he will be sadly missed by his sisters, Maire and Martina; brothers, Joseph, Gabriel, Richard, Gerard and Damien; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Born and reared in “Rinn South” to a GAA stronghold, Chris, a skilled architect by profession, served in every role at Shannon Gaels GAA Cub in Croghan from minor chairman to senior chairman, club delegate, to eventually holding many roles at county level.

The current chairman of the Northern Board, he was instrumental in developing the senior North Roscommon team.

Shannon Gaels GAA Club said that “he was pivotal in the formation of the Kilmore/Shannon Gaels (KSG) combination, a partnership that forever altered the fortunes of players, exposing them to county panels. His tireless commitment helped establish the "One Club" model in Shannon Gaels, uniting all age groups, boys and girls, men and women under a single, shared identity, that will be his lasting legacy.

“He was always the voice of reason when unresolved debates were exhausted in meeting rooms. He placed great emphasis on coaching and the development of players, and he drove footballers all over the country for games when needed. Shannon Gaels today, is a testament to his long presence,” said the club.

“Chis had a fantastic love of heritage and community, a passion that extended beyond the pitch. His camera skills became a treasured gift to the club, capturing every important moment, from summer camps to children playing games at all age levels. All were neatly presented on his famous “Gaeil na Sionainne” Facebook page. Thanks to Chris, so many of our memories live on, frozen in time through the lens of his ever-present camera.

“Outside of the GAA, Chris found great joy in fly fishing. Once May arrived, you'd often find him on Lough Arrow, eagerly embracing "Duffer's Fortnight," a time of peaceful solitude and connection with nature.

“As a club, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to Chris’s family on his untimely passing. His immense talents, gentle way with people and dedication will be greatly missed. It’s hard to encapsulate everything in a few short words what he achieved. Go raibh suaimhneas síoraí ag d’anam, Go lonraí solas na bhFlaitheas ort, Agus go raibh do spiorad inár measc go deo,” said the club.

In a statement the Northern Board said that “Chris was everything that is good about the GAA. He was a fantastic clubman to his club, Shannon Gaels GAA Club, and did everything in the club from cutting the grass, bringing members to matches, he held the roles of several different positions within the club. Chris was instrumental in the amalgamation of Kilmore/Shannon Gaels underage teams and later with involving St. Ronan’s GAA/LGFA in this amalgamation. He was also involved with Roscommon County Board and took over the role of Northern Board chairperson from Seamus Nugent in 2021.

“Chris had a lovely quiet nature, but had a great sense of humour and loved the banter. We will miss him dearly.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to all his family, his club Shannon Gaels and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.” 

*Reposal is at Station Road, Carrick-on-Shannon (N41 HX 67) on Thursday, September 12th from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.. Requiem Mass on Friday, September 13th at 12 noon in St Michael's Church, Croghan, followed by burial in Ardcarne Cemetery.