Sad passing of major figure in Athlone life

The death has occurred of one of the most significant figures in the life of Athlone over the last 70 years or more.

Donal Hynes, late of Hodson Bay, Athlone, passed away on Thursday, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at his daughter's residence in Ferbane.

The late Mr Hynes made a major contribution to the life of Athlone across many spheres.

He was an instrumental figure in the business world of Athlone, most notably as an auctioneer, a business he established in 1968 which continues to this day as REA Hynes.

The business was initially located on Northgate Street but has been based on Dublingate Street for many decades.

He spent some time in the ESB, following in the footsteps of his late father, Daniel, who was the first area engineer for the ESB in Athlone and the man responsible for turning on the power to the initial ESB customers in Athlone.

The late Mr Hynes also participated in the family electrical business and operated a music shop for some years.

He was heavily involved with Church Street Traders and Athlone Chamber of Commerce.

The late Mr Hynes was also a notable player in the artistic world of the town, starring in numerous musical productions by Athlone Musical Society throughout the 1950s and 1960s and in later years as well as taking on roles in local dramatical productions.

And he was also a pivotal figure in the local sporting community, having had key roles with Athlone Golf Club, Athlone Rugby Club and Athlone Boat Club, amongst others over the years.

Beloved father of Donna (Pyke) and Healy, cherished grandad of Aneisha, he is sadly missed by his loving family, sisters Helen (Fitzgerald) and Patricia (Reynolds), son-in-law Joe, daughter-in-law Olivia, nephews, nieces, in-laws, relatives and cherished friends and neighbours.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife Marty (nee Waldron), his sister Mary (Boland) and brothers Jim, Tom, Michael and Terry.

Due to Covid-19 and by adhering to government guidelines, a private funeral will take place for Donal for family members only.

Those wishing to express sympathies are encouraged to do so in the condolence section of the death notice on rip.ie or by sending your mass cards by post.