The death has occurred of John Dollard from Cullohill, one of Laois’s most recognisable men due to his presence, in a stewarding capacity, at major local and national events. He was aged in his late 70s.
Whether it was Croke Park, O’Moore Park, the National Ploughing Championships or local community events over the years, invariably one of the first people you’d meet was John.
A giant of a man, he acted as a steward at so many major occasions and was a friendly, helpful, jovial figure for the thousands of people he encountered.
Croke Park, in particular, was a regular destination for him, travelling by bus with a number of other Laois stewards over the years for GAA games as well as concerts, the Pope’s visit and soccer and rugby internationals when they were played there too.
All of that was done in a voluntary capacity, a hobby, and though there was work involved it also gave him a ringside view of some of the biggest occasions in the country.
A farmer and haulier, John lived at Bunlacken in Cullohill. He is survived by Mary, his wife of of more than 50 years, his son Martin, daughter-in-law Geraldine, brother Joe, sister-in-law, nephew, grand nieces, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.
John will repose in St. Tighearnach’s Church Cullohill (R32EV76) on Friday 26th September from 4pm pausing for prayers at 8pm. John’s funeral cortège will arrive in St. Tighearnach’s Church on Saturday 27th September for funeral Mass at 11am, followed by burial in Durrow cemetery (R32CK11).
House strictly private please.
SEE ALSO – Meet the Laois man who’s been at more All Irelands than most of us can remember
