Tributes paid to late Pat Hooban's professional and personal integrity and huge contribution to sport

Deep sadness greeted the news of the death of Pat Hooban on Monday evening, February 20.

Although ill for some time, Pat’s passing, at the age of 62, nevertheless came as a shock to his family, friends, neighbours and the wider community in which he was so well known and liked. 

A tradesman by profession, Pat was known the length and breadth of the county and beyond for the quality and finish of his work, and also for his integrity in his dealings with others. 

Originally from Ballyfin, he started work in construction at the age of 17, and subsequently spent 40-years in self-employment. His wife Póilín noted at his funeral Mass that, for a man who never had a business card, he always had work, and sometimes too much. His business card was his word and integrity and the pride he took in his work. 

Away from work, Pat was a noted sportsman who made a huge contribution in rugby and GAA, as well as being an enthusiast for fishing and shooting. 

He initially played hurling and football with his native Ballyfin, before transferring to Portlaoise. There he won a Laois senior hurling title in 1987, and played in the famous Leinster Club Final of that same year, losing out to Rathnure of Wexford in heartbreaking fashion. 

His contribution to, and association with Portlaoise Rugby Club, was long and substantial, both on and off the pitch and was, his wife Póilín, noted his legacy. 

In a tribute on facebook, Portlaoise Rugby Club said, “Pat had diligently served the club in many roles, both on and off the pitch. Having hung up his playing boots Pat took to coaching at many levels, serving on the committee for many years. In 2020 Pat was honoured by being elected as Club President, a position he served with distinction, representing the club with dignity all over Leinster.

“In his time as President, Pat oversaw many developments within the club, one of the most satisfying being the fact that the 1st XV won the Hosie Cup for the first time in ten years.

“And whether as President or club member, Pat was always available when needed. Whenever there was a job to be done, the call would go out to Pat and in no time he would be on the job – a really true clubman. In truth, Pat was to the forefront when it came to the development of many of the club’s facilities.

“Outside of the club action, Pat’s other most satisfying moment came when his daughter, Emma, who started her rugby career out in Togher, earned a call up to the Ireland panel in 2018, and has gone on to win 13 full caps.”

Emma, who was selected on the Ireland squad for the Japanese tour last August, currently plays with Blackrock College. Paying a touching tribute to her dad at the funeral Mass on Thursday she noted that he was always her Number 1.  

In his homily, Monsignor John Byrne noted that Pat's most tremendous sporting moments were the achievements of his daughter Emma. 

Huge crowds attended Pat’s funeral Mass at SS Peter and Paul’s Church on Thursday, as well as the wake at the family home in Cherrygarth on Wednesday evening, reflecting the popularity, respect and esteem in which he was held. 

Guards of Honour were provided by Portlaoise Rugby Club as well as Portlaoise and Ballyfin GAA Clubs. Residents of Cherrygarth also provided a guard of honour at the removal on Thursday morning. 

The chief celebrant was Monsignor John Byrne, and concelebrant was Fr. Joseph Brophy, PP Ballyfin. 

Pat was predeceased by his parents Joe and Maureen Hooban, Ballyfin, and his brother Peter and his wife Pauline. 

He is deeply regretted by his loving wife Póilín (Pauline) and much cherished daughter Emma, sisters Margie (Scully) Mountmellick, Alice (McEniry) Mountmellick , brothers Dan, Joe and Kevin, Aunt Rose (Meleady) Dublin, Aunt Sheila (Thornhill) London, Uncle Peter (Redmond) Redcastle, Mountrath, Uncle Bernie (Redmond), Merton, London, Cousin James (Thornhill), West Sussex, England, nieces, nephews, brothers in laws, sisters in law, cousins, neighbours and his many friends.

 Removal took place from his residence on Thursday morning to St Peter & Paul’s Church, Portlaoise for 12 noon Mass. Burial took place afterwards in SS Peter and Pauls Cemetery Portlaoise.