Tributes paid following passing of County Roscommon master boatbuilder

Tributes have poured in following the passing of Donal Conlon, Carnadoe, Kilmore, a master boatbuilder renowned throughout the country.

Mr. Conlon, who was laid to rest yesterday, Tuesday, created a boatyard across the road from his mother's house and shop at Carnadoe Bridge where a Shannon tributary led into the inner lakes.

One sympathiser online said that his passing represented “the end of an amazing era of boat building in Ireland”.

“He built great boats ranging from rowing boats to the very first cruisers on the Shannon with the Kennedy's at Jamestown and Shannon Harbour.

“He later spread his wings building offshore racing yachts in Cork and elsewhere. He was a perfectionist, he pushed the limits and his reputation preceded him even when working with internationally renowned designers.

“He built Carnadoe with vision. Conversations with Donal were always stimulating, he would bring up technical details of designs that he had contributed to over the decades. He was never short of ideas and his memory and mind remained sharp.” 

Another paying tribute to the gifted boat builder and carpenter said: Donie's knowledge of boats, navigation and the water was unsurpassed and he generously shared it with everyone without exception. 

"The world has lost a man of the highest integrity and a true gentleman.” 

Mr Conlon was laid to be laid to rest yesterday in Kilmore Cemetery following Funeral Mass in St. Brigid’s Church, Dangan.

He was predeceased by his brother Michael, his parents Kathleen and Michael and brothers-in-law Geoff, Paddy and John.

Dearly loved brother of Carmel, Tess, Gabrielle, Phyllis, Frances and Betty, he will also be very sadly missed and fondly remembered by his loving sisters, brother-in-law, uncle, aunt, nephews, nieces, cousins, neighbours, a large circle of friends, and his boating friends on the River Shannon.