There is deep sadness in Camross following the passing of one of its most beloved sons – Paddy Dowling.
An excellent hurler who represented Laois and Camross, Paddy went on to serve as secretary of his club for many years.
At the time of his passing, he held the role of vice-president.
During his playing days, Paddy hurler for Laois in two All-Ireland finals – winning one and losing the other.
Back in 1964, he was on the Laois minor hurling team that defeated Kilkenny in the Leinster final but just came up short against Cork in the All-Ireland decider.
Paddy went on to represent Laois at U-21 and senior level where the highlight came in 1977 when he was on the Laois side that defeated London 3-21 to 2-9 in the All-Ireland Senior ‘B’ hurling final.
At club level, Paddy won multiple honours too – including being named Laois senior hurler of the year in 1976.
For Camross, Paddy was part of 11 senior championship winning teams and four sides that won U-21 crowns.
Around 40 years ago, Paddy sustained injuries in a work-related incident that left him paralysed and despite, the best of medical attention, Paddy was not to walk again.
But despite that, Paddy enjoyed life and for a while was a selector with Camross senior team.
His health deteriorated in recent times and he spent time in the wonderful care of the staff of Portlaoise Hospital where he passed away on Tuesday evening surrounded by his family.
Paddy will be sadly missed by his loving wife Sheila, daughters Majella and Jackie, brothers, sister, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Paddy’s funeral details are as follows: “Reposing at his home on the Ballyfin Road, Mountrath, this Wednesday evening, from 7pm with rosary in the house at 9 o’c and all day on Thursday with rosary at 9pm.
“Removal on Friday morning to St. Fintan’s Church, Mountrath arriving for Funeral Mass at 11am, with burial immediately afterwards in St. Fintan’s cemetery, Mountrath.”
May Paddy Rest In Peace.
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