Tommy Lynch R.I.P
A sad day for Cork GAA was how the death of SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh and Pairc Uí Rinn groundsman Tommy Lynch was described on Wednesday. Tommy, 91, passed away at St Finbarr’s Hospital on Wednesday. Tommy was a well-known figure in GAA circles, who had a deep love for the sport and a passion for his work.
Tommy supported his local Knocknaheeny Club, St Vincents and was a well-known character among players and executives of Cork GAA, regaling them with stories from his 43 years of service. Tommy was described as the “go-to” man for games and concerts at the two stadiums.
Tommy had one son, Anthony and one daughter, Marian and he retired just three years ago from his role at the stadiums.
Cork G.A.A. Chairman Marc Sheehan led tributes to Tommy Lynch who passed away on Wednesday describing him as a genial and committed figure who was well known and highly regarded by all who encountered him in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh and Páirc Uí Rinn over many years.
“Tommy was a great character , blessed with that great Cork city wit and charm who above all was fiercely loyal to Cork Inter county Teams and clubs teams by aiding their preparations and match day visits to the stadia.
He took immense pride in his work in both stadia and enjoyed the banter with the various visitors whom he encountered – always good for a ‘ ball hop’ and the odd good humoured ‘jab’ as well.
Scores of former Cork players, team mentors, Board officers and club members will fondly remember him and will recount many stories and yarns at this sad time”.
Cork GAA Secretary Kevin O’ Donovan said “Tommy Lynch stands as a true giant amongst the many unsung heroes of Cork GAA, all those that make the organisation thrive on a daily basis. He marked time for over a half-century of service from the Athletic Grounds to Páirc Uí Rinn, from the original SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh to the latest model. No Cork match or training session will ever be the same without Tommy’s customary wit and indeed his eagerness to help those who were lucky enough to pass through his hands. Sincere sympathies to all his family and friends. He will be a great loss, but there will be joy too in remembering the great colour he gave to us all over an incredible tenure”
At Rest now Tommy – a long life well lived . Ar dheis a Dé go raibh a anam.
Sympathy to his family and friends at this time.
