Edenderry shocked and saddened by untimely death of Credit Union chairman

The town of Edenderry has been plunged into sadness after the untimely death of Croi Laighean Credit Union chairman Martin Maloney.

Martin, known fondly as Muller, passed away after a short illness, and has been remembered as a "true gentleman" and integral member of the community, in both his work with the local Credit Union, and on the football pitch as a referee.

Croi Laighean Credit Union led tributes on Tuesday as they said: "It is with great sadness and a truly heavy heart we announce the untimely passing of our chairman Martin Maloney.

"Martin was so involved at many of our AGMs that we asked him to join the Board to help make a difference from the inside, and he certainly did this.

"Martin was heavily involved with Croí Laighean Credit Union since its inception, having served on the board of Edenderry Credit Union since 2013. He played a leading role in two mergers and helped to steer the ever-expanding ship to ensure both were very successful," they added.

In 2022, Martin took over as chairman from Eugene Kearney, and during his time as chair, he helped to implement the vision for the future of Croí Laighean and set it on course to deliver on its ambitious strategic plans.

"In late April 2023 at our annual strategic planning day, he stood up at the end of a very long day of presentations and gave an inspiring speech to everyone on the day – a key moment to give us focus and determination to succeed. Martin’s mantra to all in Croí Laighean, and a quote he repeated constantly…'If you put on the uniform, you must soldier'….something we will long remember him by," a statement recalled.

Martin was also an avid football fan and refereed matches for over 20 years. During his time as a referee, he rose to a very high level within the FAI, and his claim to fame was sharing the pitch with Real Madrid and Manchester United during his career.

"Martin was a man who loved to talk and was blessed with a great sense of humour and an infectious personality – I think Martin’s personality can best be summarised when he was asked to say something quirky about himself; Martin’s response was that he once sent his brother off in a match after 2 minutes," the Credit Union staff statement read.

"Martin was a great leader and someone who was always there for everyone, and he will be truly missed by all the staff and fellow board members of Croí Laighean Credit Union. We offer our deepest condolences to his family and his vast array of friends and colleagues. May he rest in peace."

Locals in Edenderry have also been paying tribute to Muller after news of his death filtered through the town early on Tuesday.

One tribute read: "I always remember when he came in as a sub teacher in the Vocational school and was teaching us including his brother Paud. He wasn't much older than us and we just couldn't take him serious. He got a laugh out of it but boy could he throw out the homework as a punishment. Rest in peace Mr Maloney. Reunited with your mam, dad and sister."

Another said: "So sorry to hear this sad news. Martin was a gentleman and always so welcoming. May he rest in peace."

A third added: "So sorry for your loss. Another great character taken too soon. Rest in peace, Muller."

Martin passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.  Predeceased by his parents Paud and Rita and his sister Pauline.  He will be deeply regretted and sadly missed by his family; sister Linda, brothers Kenneth and Paud (Jnr)

Funeral Details:

Reposing at Larkin's Funeral Home, Edenderry this Wednesday from 5pm to 8pm with Rosary at 8pm. Funeral Mass on Thursday at 12 noon in St. Mary's Church, Edenderry followed by burial in St. Mary's cemetery. You can also take part in Martin's Funeral Mass on the Edenderry Parish Webcam HERE.