John Pat dances for his 100th birthday on St Patrick’s Day

John Pat McNaboe of Rossduff, Aughnacliffe, celebrated his 100th birthday on St Patrick’s Day at his new residence in Westmeath with family, friends, music provided by a ceilidh band and dancing involving the man himself.

The many cards and presents on display were a clear testament to the great affection and deep respect felt for John Pat in his local area, where he is seen as a pillar of the community.

Born in 1926 on a small farm in Rossduff, where he lived for the next 95 years, John Pat was a hard working countryman all his life, starting off labouring on a local farm for two shillings a week, then inheriting his parents’ land and making a living from his livestock, though without any of the technology taken for granted today.

The farm became a hub of local life as his brother Michael was a shoemaker and people were always dropping in for a chat.

A man of simple tastes, wit and wisdom, John Pat is the last surviving member of a family of nine children. He has lost none of his deep faith, humour or strength of character. Happy 100th John Pat!

John Pat is now cared for by Lisa Corroon and family at their home from home, Forest View House, Home for the Elderly in Ballinagore.