RIP: Sadness in Offaly following death of local GAA stalwart and 'great family man'

It is with great sadness to announce the death of Joseph (Joe) Rock, late of 86 The Green, Clara, Offaly, who passed away on Tuesday, March 4, peacefully at the midlands regional hospital Tullamore, surrounded by his loving family.

Joe is predeceased by his parents Annie and Jack, brothers Gerry and Vincent and sister Lilly.

He is deeply regretted by his loving wife Margaret, daughters Sandra and Deirdre, adored grandchildren Emma and Ciara, great granddaughter Èabha, brothers Michael and Christy, sisters in law, brothers in law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Joe was a well known GAA man who started out playing for Clara GAA in the 50's and was a key member in the Clara minor football team in '59.

Heartfelt condolences have poured in following his passing, from friends and people in the community who fondly remembered Joe.

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Clara GAA also posted a very touching tribute to Joe on social media, reminding everyone of how Joe started out his sporting career with them and his commitment to the club.

"Clara GAA Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Joe Rock, Joe began his playing career at an early age, representing the club in underage competitions throughout the mid 50's and early 60's.

"He was a key member of the Clara minor football team in 1959, which was seeking a historic three-in-a-row but narrowly lost to Tullamore in the final. That same year, he also played in the Minor B final, where Clara was defeated by a strong Shinrone side.

"In the early 1950s, Joe was an active participant in the highly competitive town league, representing the Green housing estate team. This league brought together teams from various estates and townlands around Clara, fostering strong rivalries and a deep love for the games.

"Joe’s commitment to Clara GAA extended beyond his playing days. In the 1990's, he became involved with Clara Bord na nÓg, (the underage side of the club) serving on various committees. From 1992 to 1997, he helped guide a talented group of young players from under-12 level through to minor, achieving great success in both football and hurling.

"In the early 2000s, Joe took on the role of club treasurer, a position he held for many years. He was to the fore in the club’s purchase of the grounds at Pairc Phroinsias, ensuring future generations of Clara players would benefit from top-class facilities.

"Joe will be forever remembered within Clara GAA Club."May he rest in peace."

Other tributes on RIP.ie, have echoed Clara GAA on Joe's presence within the club, but also what a great family man he was, how he was one of life's great characters and was always up for a bit of banter.

One tribute says,

"Deepest sympathy to Margaret, Sandra and Deirdre on the death of your dear husband and Dad. He was a great friend and a real gentleman. May Joe Rest In Peace."

Another says,

"Sincere condolences to all the family. May Joe rest in peace. We have such fond memories of him. He would talk with dad for hours and we would hear about every kick of the ball from every match!"

While another says,

"Our deepest sympathy to Margaret, Sandra, Deirdre, Emma, Ciara and Éabha on the very sad passing of Joe. A great character who will be dearly missed by everyone. A very dear and loyal friend who will be greatly missed by us all. May you're gentle soul RIP Joe."

Funeral Arrangements

Reposing at his residence from 4pm to 8pm on Wednesday. Removal on Thursday to St Brigid’s Church, Clara, for funeral Mass at 12:30pm. Burial afterwards in the Monastery cemetery, Clara.

Funeral Mass can be viewed on the following link- https://youtube.com/live/kkhlcLse2To?feature=share