Tributes paid after passing of Luke Murtagh - one of Tipperary's 'finest civil servants'

Luke Murtagh, former CEO of the North Tipperary VEC, passed away on Sunday, September 15.

Formerly of Westmeath and Kilkenny, Luke also lived in Nenagh.

Luke passed away on Sunday last, surrounded by his family.

He is missed by his wife Anne, daughters Blathnaid, Niamh, Aoife, and Fiona, and sons Eoghan and Eamonn.

Reposing on Tuesday September 17 at Ryan's Funeral Home Nenagh (E45 KN93), from 5pm until 7:30pm.

Funeral arriving on Wednesday to St Mary of the Rosary Church Nenagh (E45 YH29), for Funeral Mass at 12pm, followed by burial in Lisboney Lawn Cemetery.

Luke's Funeral Mass can be viewed on www.nenaghparish.ie.

The family asks for family flowers only, and donations if desired can be made to Milford Care Centre.

Tributes have been paid to Luke online, with one of his past-pupils saying: "Sad to hear of Mr Murtagh's passing. A wonderful teacher and a man before his time in education. His accountancy classes were always looked forward to. Great memories of the trips to camogie matches in his Renault 4.2 in the front seat and about 6 in the back. May he rest in peace."

Another remarked: "My sincere condolences to all of Luke's family and friends. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. I worked with Luke on the board of Tipperary Tourism where he gave his time and advice generously. A natural and gifted leader, we learned a lot from him. He was greatly respected by all and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with and learn from him. I have no doubt he is a great loss to all who knew him, especially his family, you are in my thoughts and prayers. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace."

Various TDs have paid their respects to Luke upon his passing, with TD Alan Kelly saying: "My sincere condolences to the Murtagh family on the sad passing of Luke. May he rest in peace."

TD Michael Lowry also said: "Luke was one of the finest public servants I met during my career."

"He had outstanding ability matched with a practical approach. Luke possessed a rich personality, always genuine, always considerate, kind and generous of heart. It was always a pleasure to encounter his big smile, warm friendship and jovial

personality," he added.