IT was with great sadness that the local community learned of the recent death of Mr Pat Martin.
He died on June 21 at his Strangford Road home in Downpatrick following a period of illness. He was 77.
Pat had strong connections with the Downpatrick and Saintfield areas. He was born in Saintfield in 1942, the only son of the late Mary and Joe Martin.
On completion of his education at Ballynahinch Technical College, he pursued a career in nursing at the Downshire Hospital where he gave 30 years’ service.
Pat was a skilled footballer and cricketer, playing competitively in the local leagues. He continued his love of football by serving for many years as a referee and referee assessor.
His generosity in service was reflected in the numerous awards he received, including from the Newcastle and Down Association Football League in 2006. Pat was also a lifelong Manchester United fan and made many trips with his closest friend and brother-in-law, Harry McCurry, to see his beloved team at Old Trafford.
Pat was a longstanding supporter of the blood donation service and he was particularly proud of the gold pin he was presented with by the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service after donating 50 pints of blood.
A devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great grandfather and loyal friend, Pat also found time to indulge his passions for travel, sport and folk music.
He was a dedicated member of Downpatrick Folk Club for many years and enjoyed listening to established and up and coming talent.
Pat was also a keen walker and loved the Co Down countryside, particularly the Quoile. He also developed close connections with Warrenpoint, Carlingford and Bray, where he and his wife Frances made many good friends.
Pat was a happy, humorous, good-natured and unpretentious individual. As an only child, he was devoted to his parents and cared for them selflessly in their later years. He also created a stable and loving family home and was always supportive of his children.
Pat was a devout member of the local congregation and his faith, along with these personal qualities, enabled him to cope with his illness which he bore so courageously.
He is survived by his wife Frances, son Ronnie, daughters Deirdre and Katrina, daughter-in-law Jackie and sons-in-law John and Brian, ten grandchildren, a great grand-daughter and the wider family circle. In spite of his declining health, Pat kept in daily contact with his late son, Liam, whom he had a deep love for.
Described as “one of nature’s true gentlemen”, Pat will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered. He was a popular and widely admired person who was highly respected by all who knew him.
Pat’s largely attended Requiem Mass bore testament to the fine man he truly was and took place on Monday, June 24, in St Patrick’s Church, Downpatrick. The celebrant was Fr Murray.
May his gentle soul rest in everlasting peace.
Pat’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place in St Brigid’s Church, Downpatrick, at 7.30pm on Saturday.