'Duty done soldier' grief as death announced of Laois army veteran
Laois family, community and army veteran comrades mourn death of Peter McNamara
Retired Irish army colleagues are mourning the death of a beloved comrade and Portlaoise resident.
Peter McNamara, from The Green, Kilminchy, Portlaoise, Laois / Newbridge, Kildare, passed away on Wednesday, November 4.
He was an active member of Post 27, the Laois branch of the Irish United Nations Veterans Association.
They have expressed their deep sympathy to his family, and pay tribute to the work he did with the group.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Peter’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
“Peter was a valued member of our Post and will be greatly missed by his colleagues, fellow members and many friends.
“As Treasurer of Post 27, Peter played an influential role in so much of the work and many of the achievements carried out by our Post over the past number of years. His dedication, commitment and friendship will never be forgotten.
“You will be sadly missed, Peter. Thank you for everything you did for Post 27. May you rest in eternal peace,” the group say.
Several sympathisers expressed the military phrase “duty done”, in their heartfelt messages.
“We are very sorry for your loss of Peter. Please know we are thinking of you all at this time. Peter was a great Soldier and Comrade. May he rest in peace. Duty Done Soldier. Rest off now,” a local comrade said.
Mr McNamara, who served in several overseas peacekeeping missions for the United Nations, also worked in the Portlaoise Citizens Advice office.
He passed away peacefully in the tender care of the Staff of St.John’s Ward, St James’s hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Pre-deceased by his father John, mother Carmel and sister Gráinne, he is mourned by his wife Iryna and her daughter Anastasia, and his sons Scott, Corey, Greg and daughter Rebecca.
Also in mourning are his brother John, sisters Niamh, Emer and Siobhán, brothers in law, Mark, Paddy and Jason, Sister in Law Aisling, his grandsons, Lee, Harry, Ben, Tadhg and Cayden, his nieces and nephews, comrades of the defence forces, and colleagues in Portlaoise Citizens advice and many friends.
Reposing at Keegans Funeral Home, Portlaoise (R32Y368) on Sunday evening, November 8 from 5 pm until 6.30 , with rosary at 6 pm. Requiem mass at 11 am on Monday in SS Peter and Paul's Church, Portlaoise followed by cremation in Newlands Cross at 1 pm.