The death has occurred of Matt Moore, the Emo native who made a massive impact across the business, political and farming world.
Aged in his late 60s, Matt lived in Treascon, Portarlington, for many years, with his wife Valerie.
He is survived by his four adult children, Amy, Conor, Kate and Ellie, their partners, and grandchildren.
He had been battling cancer for the past couple of years.
He lived an incredibly varied life, working initially as a Garda but later running the Webster Insurance brokerage in Portarlington and Oakdale Nursing Home.
On top of that he farmed, was heavily involved in the IFA and was a massive political figure and a driving force behind the election of Tom Parlon for the PDs in 2002.
He then served as a special advisor during Parlon’s term as Minister of State.
He was also then a key figure in the election of Cathal Berry in the Kildare South constituency in 2020, mobilising support in Portarlington that was essential in sending Berry to the Dail.
Picture: Alf Harvey.
Blessed with a wonderful wit, a sharp intellect and a great turn of phrase, Matt was engaging company for everyone he dealt with.
His memory of detail and historical knowledge across a range of sectors was beyond compare.
If politics, business and farming weren’t enough to keep him busy, he was also a huge Laois GAA supporter and an absolutely staunch Emo man.
Rarely would you chat football with him when he wouldn’t bring up the brilliant Emo team of the 1970s, their sole senior success in 72 and their draw and replay series with their dear neighbours The Heath in 1974.
He was an immensely proud family man , both of his own wife and children and his brothers and sister.
The sudden death of his brother Pat last December was a huge blow, who, like Matt made a huge contribution to local life.
Funeral details are yet to be announced. May Matt Rest in Peace.
SEE ALSO – 30 years of business and going stronger than ever – Martin Kirwan Haulage
