NEALIE O'NEILL CELEBRATES HIS 90TH BIRTHDAY
 |
Shoemaker, Nealie O'Neill, Castletownbere, celebrated his 90th Birthday this week-end surrounded by his family and friends. Nealie, whose shop was in the Main Street, was a stopover for many people who visited to replay the match that was played yesterday, drop off shopping to pick up there later on or just to say 'hello' is known and loved in the four parishes of Beara. His sons, Terry, Cornie, Barry and Brendan organised a family get together at the Ford Rí Hotel to celebrate the occasion. As some members of the family said, 'it happens too often that we assemble like this when a person dies, why not celebrate with that person while still alive and active'. What a true saying! Nealie's sisters Agnes and Frances travelled from New York along with his niece Mary for the special occasion. Anne, who wished she could be travel, also sent her best wishes. |
|
Nealie, with his sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren |
|
|
His sister Eileen, who was due to travel from Dublin, fell ill last week and was unable to make the celebrations. She is wished a speedy recovery. To complete that generation, his sister Sheila who resides in Castletownbere was also there. (see photo below) All his daughters-in-laws and grandchildren attended also. (see photo above) Following the meal, Donal Kelly, Chairman of the Castletownbere GAA Club and Cllr. Noel Harrington M.C.C. (also a member of the Club) made a special presentation to Nealie, who is President of the Club since 1971. (See Photo under 'Sports' Heading - GAA Results) To round the evening off Nealie headed off a sing-song with a massive rendition of 'Master Mc'Grath' followed later with 'Through the Meadow where the Bluebells Grow' and ' The Banks of the Foyle' which lasted well into the wee hours of the morning. Not only has he a great voice, he didn't forget any of the words either. A fantastic evening was had by all. Wishing you many many more happy returns of the day Nealie. Following a great week-end, it was decided by the O'Neill Family in Beara to start organizing a clan gathering of all the families from this generation to date to be held in Beara next year - 2001 either in early July or late August (easier re accommodation and the children are on school holidays etc.) Those reading this who are interested in co-ordinating this event, please email Mary at oneillclangathering@eircom.net |
|
|
Right: Nealie cutting his cake ably assisted by his grandaughters Aideen (on left) and Kerry |
 |
 |
and on the left with grandson Damien (Cork Footballer) singing one of his songs. |
Presentation to Castletownbere GAA President
Nealie O'Neill, President of the Castletownbere GAA Club since 1971, celebrated his 90th Birthday. Donal Kelly, Chairman of the Club, presented him with a beautiful piece of Limited Edition Ryanhart, as an appreciation of his endeavours to the club, both on and off the field over the years. Cllr. Noel Harrington, M.C.C. and club member, also presented him with a Framed Certificate from the Club.
Nealie accepting the presentations from Donal Kelly & Noel Harrington
