Tributes paid after passing of well-known Kildare solicitor

Tributes have been paid to well-known retired Kildare solicitor Tony Hanahoe. 

Mr Hanahoe passed away peacefully at home in Naas on Friday surrounded by his loving family.

He is the beloved husband of Berna and dear father of Carl, Luke and Amy.

Son Luke said in a post on social media: "As a mark of respect for the passing of Tony Hanahoe, the offices of Hanahoe and Hanahoe Solicitors in Naas will be closed on Monday the 13th of February.

"Tony set up Hanahoe and Hanahoe with his beloved wife Berna, 43 years ago.

"A man of the upmost integrity, who took his responsibilities to clients, colleagues, the profession and the Court incredibly seriously.

"He is deeply missed by his family, friends and colleagues. Rest in Peace."

At a surprise retirement function attended by many colleagues in Naas Courthouse in September, Mr Hanahoe was described as the “very fabric of Naas District Court".

In a personal tribute, Judge Desmond Zaidan said: “There are lawyers, and then there are lawyers" adding that Mr Hanahoe was exceptional both as a person and as a lawyer.

He added: “You are part of the fixtures and fittings of the district court. You are the district court, and the district court is you."

When a young solicitor asked Judge Zaidan how he would succeed in his career, the judge advised him to “come into court and watch Tony Hanahoe on his feet.”

In response to the tributes, Mr Hanahoe said: "All I can say, if it is 44 years ago since I started, the time has flown."

He thanked all the judges he appeared before, including Judge Zaidan for the past 12 years.

“I am going to miss this court.

“ I have appeared here for 44 to 45 years, and it was always my favourite place.

"I am going to miss all of you."

Mr Hanahoe was pre-deceased by his sister Catherine. Mr Hanahoe will also be sadly missed by his brothers Michael and Joe, son-in-law Gavin, daughters-in-law Beth and Kate, grandchildren Lana, Rachel, Charlie, Elliott and Georgia, nephews, nieces, relatives and a wide circle of friends and colleagues.

Funeral Arrangements

Mr Hanahoe's remains will repose at his home on Sunday from 3pm to 7pm.

Removal takes place on Monday to the Church of Our Lady and St. David, Naas arriving for 12 noon Mass followed by burial in St. Corban’s Cemetery. 

Donations, if desired, to St. Brigid’s Hospice The Curragh.

The Funeral Mass can be viewed by clicking on the following link: https://www.naasparish.ie/our-parish/naas-webcam/