Longford mourns passing of renowned mechanic and great community man Peter Smyth
Peter was a great outdoor man and fishing and shooting were his chosen sports
Once again there was great shock and sadness within the community when we learned of the death at the Regional Hospital, Mullingar on Thursday, February 29 of Peter Smyth, Main Street, Lanesboro.
Peter was a landmark in the town of Lanesboro and was widely known countrywide.
He was predeceased by his parents Pat and Nellie and his brother John.
Peter was renowned for his expertise as a diesel mechanic and it is said from many that worked with him was that all he had to hear was the engine turned on and he could immediately identify the problem.
He served his time with local garage owner Paddy Kenny until he closed his business on Main Street. He then worked for about 20 years with Bord na Móna until his retirement.
In his younger days he was a mighty footballer captaining the schoolboys’ team to a championship win. He was a keen boxer with the Lanesboro Boxing club.
Peter was a great outdoor man and fishing and shooting were his chosen sports. He would travel to Scotland for the grouse season and was always active locally during the shooting season. He had his own boat on the river and would always be out fishing no matter what the type of weather. When advice on fishing or shooting was required then it was to Peter you went due to his all-embracing knowledge.
Peter was active for 25 years with Lanesboro Fire Brigade. Come evening time he like to relax with a game of cards or watching a good film and in particular westerns.
Peter always had a dog by his side, very well trained and after many years he lost his pride and joy Misty only to be replaced by and equally excellent Miller.
He was a great community man, excellent company, a great man for having a chat with, generous to a fault and there was nothing more important to him than his family. His loss will be sadly missed by everyone that knew him.
His remains reposed at Farrell’s Funeral Home on Sunday, March 3. His remains were removed to St Mary’s Church on Monday, March 4 for his Funeral Mass that was followed by burial in Clonbonny Cemetery.
We extend our deepest sympathy to his brothers Hughie and Patrick, his sisters Eithne (Clyne) and Caroline (Ginty), his uncle Johnny ((Weekfield, Roscommon), brothers in law, sister in law, nephews Ciaran and Rory (Australia), Francis and niece Elizabeth, relatives and many friends for their sad loss.