There is sadness in Rathdowney this week at the death of Michael Dillane, the former highly-regarded principal of St Fergal’s College.
Originally from Ballylongford in north Kerry, Mr Dillane came to Rathdowney in 1957 as principal of the then Technical school.
A science teacher by profession, there were only about 10 pupils in the school and three classrooms (science, woodwork and Home Economics) when he arrived.
Over time he oversaw a considerable expansion, with student numbers rising to over 500 before he retired in 1991.
“He came to Rathdowney with the view of enhancing the school,” said local councillor John King.
“He liked the area and lived and settled here and his family are very highly respected here.
“We’re very grateful for all Michael did in Rathdowney and for his role in making the school what it is today.
“He is held in very high esteem and he will be remembered very fondly for all the work he did.”
Michael passed away peacefully, at his residence in Rathdowney on Sunday.
Sadly missed by his wife Kitty and his sons John, Peter and Dominic, daughters-in-law Linda, Jeanne and Agnes, grandchildren Colm, Shauna, Louis, Anna, Julia, Chloe and Isa, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Reposing at O’Sullivan’s Funeral Home, Rathdowney, on Tuesday evening from 6pm with prayers at 8pm.
Funeral Mass on Wednesday in The Church of The Holy Trinity, Rathdowney, at 12 noon (parishwebsites.ie/rathdowney), followed by interment in Bealady Cemetery, Rathdowney.
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