Late Martin McGuinness - fondly remembered in Ballyshannon and Dublin

The sudden death of Martin McGuinness in Dublin last week was learned of with shock in his native Ballyshannon.

Formerly of Erne Street, Martin was from a well-known family. His death at the age of 70  took place in Tallaght University Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

His outgoing personality was well suited to his work as he travelled the length and breadth of Ireland, first as a print supply salesman and later as a jewellery salesman for the latter half of his working life.

Prior to that he was an important member of the production staff of the Donegal Democrat for some 20 years, beginning in the early 1970s, where he joined after completing his school days in the De La Salle Brothers and Ballyshannon Vocational School.

In his work for the Donegal Democrat, he was to the fore when the company moved from the old printing methods to lithographic printing. Martin and the late Rollie Harron, who was buried on the day of Martin’s death, were the two members of staff who led the changeover.

Martin’s name and appearance sometimes led to some awkward moments when travelling through the North of Ireland. On production of his driving licence, he was often asked to step out of the car.

His life took another road when he was asked to be groomsman at his friend Phonsie McCauley’s wedding. There he met the love of his life, Caroline, and a move to Dublin followed. Martin and Caroline were married for 38 years and he was devoted to the family and his daughter Aideen and son Gavin.

Away from his working and family life, Martin’s tastes were always simple. He just loved to cook, especially for friends and family. His garden also reflected his love of life.  In his younger days he was a member of the FCA and rose to the rank of Corporal. He liked to fish but walking the dog and getting into conversation with friends and neighbours was enough to keep him happy. That love of people was reflected in the attendance at his wake and funeral. He is fondly remembered in both Donegal and Dublin.

Martin was laid to rest in Kilmashogue cemetery on Monday after Requiem Mass in St Colmcille’s Church, Knocklyon.

Martin is survived by his wife and best friend Caroline; his children Aideen and Gavin and their partners; brothers Eunan, Thomas, Denis and Gerard; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and friends especially Kevin, Liam, Phonsie and Brendan.

 Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.