Tribute paid to man killed in Louth car accident

Cooley Kickhams GFC have paid tribute to local man Raymond Hanlon who tragically lost his life in a car accident in the early hours of Sunday morning

Taking to Facebook the club said:

“Our Club and Community were dealt a devastating blow on Sunday morning with the news of the sudden and tragic passing of Raymond Hanlon (Raymie).”

Mr Hanlon came from “a family steeped in Cooley Kickhams GFC,” and was described as “a willing and extremely capable volunteer who served the club on many an occasion at our various fundraising events.”

“Raymond was always there, at minimal notice, to lend a helping hand when required. Generous with his time, dependable, nothing phased him, Raymond took everything in his stride.

“Raymond took great pride in tending to the grass verges that run adjacent to Fr Mc Evoy Park and ensured they looked their  very best at all times.

“Raymond proudly wore the green and gold jersey at juvenile level and was very much part of the fabric of this great club.

“The farming life was Raymond’s first love, he especially loved his John Deere where tilling, planting, harvesting, all came second nature to him. Raymond flourished on the farm under the stewardship of Miceál with whom he had a special relationship.

“Raymond was unrivalled when it came to handling and driving the various pieces of plant and machinery on the farm.”

Mr Hanlon was described as  “the go-to man for those extra challenging farm tasks,” and someone who had a  “steady and calm demeanour” which earned him huge respect among his farming peers.

“Raymond had a great empathy with the younger farm apprentices. He took them under his wing and he taught them well. In turn they looked up to him and they held him in the highest esteem.

“Raymond greeted everyone with the widest, brightest smile and of course his synonymous wave, these we will miss.

“Cooley Kickhams GFC would like to extend their sincerest sympathies to Raymond’s family especially his Mum Patricia, Dad James, his daughter Kourtney, his brothers and sisters Seamus, Yvonne, Colin, Róisin, Rónan, Paul, Michael John and Patrick, his partner Deborah and Kourtney’s Mum, Caroline.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very sad time.

“Ar Dheis Dé Go Raibh A Anam Dílis.”

Mr Hanlon will repose at the family home (Eircode A91 VR94) from 2pm-11pm today, Wednesday. 

Removal on Thursday at 10.30am, to the Church of Our Lady, Star of the Sea, Boher, arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am. Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

The single vehicle accident occurred shortly before 2.30am on Sunday morning on the R176 in Carlingford.

 Gardaí are appealing to anyone who has information, who may have witnessed the incident or who may have video footage (including dash-cam), to contact Dundalk Garda Station on 042 938 4800, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.