1940-2009 PATRICK BUCKLEY, Caherlsee, Tralee and formerly of Millstreet, Co Cork, whose death occurred on Thursday, October 29, made an immense contribution in helping to establish addiction treatment services in his adopted county of Kerry …
… Patrick hailed from Millstreet, Co Cork and was one of four children born to Patrick and Mary Buckley. His siblings were sister Kathleen and brothers Denis and Kevin ( deceased). Patrick joined the family business of Buckley’s Stores in the 1950s, starting out on the shop floor learning the basics. He progressed to become managing director of company until the business ceased to operate during the recessionary 1980s.
As a student in Mungret College, Patrick developed a passion for rugby and wore the college colours on the field of play. He was an avid Munster supporter and gloried in their many victories and took their defeats on the chin. The recent red tide of support that has enveloped Munster rugby has seen a huge surge in their following, culminating in the two Heineken Cup victories.
Patrick’s rugby highlight was undoubtedly Munster’s famous victory over the All Blacks in the old Thomond Park on October 31, 1978. Many thousands have claimed to have been there on that famous day, but Patrick was one of the lucky ones who witnessed in person the historic and never to be forgotten victory.
Patrick’s other pastimes included reading and travelling. An avid reader, he travelled extensively in his early years and often recounted many of his enjoyable trips to foreign places.
Patrick’s family played a very central part in his life. A proud husband to his wife Breda, father, and grandfather, his love for his family was plain for all to see. Patrick and Breda celebrated their golden jubilee anniversary with a family get-together in Dingle in November, 2008. There to celebrate with them were their five sons, two daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and 20 grandchildren, who formed a huge part of his life and who idolised him.
The removal of Patrick’s remains took place from the Gleasure Funeral Home to the Church of Our Lady and St Brendan on Saturday, October 31. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Sunday morning at 10am, following which interment took place in St Mary’s Cemetery, Millstreet.
Patrick’s family got great solace at the removal and funeral from the large number of people who acknowledged his contribution to their successful recovery.
Patrick is deeply missed by his loving wife Breda, children Patrick, Mary, Carol, John, Jim, Donagh and Kieran, sister Kathleen, brother Denis, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, relatives and many friends.