THE death has occurred at Mowlam Nursing Home in Ennis of Pat Cleary of Hazelgrove, Roslevan who was the advertising manager at The Clare Champion for many years.
A native of Kilmihil, Pat travelled the world before he settled in Wales and became involved in the newspaper industry. He was the advertising manager in charge of several titles there before returning to Clare.
Pat was appointed to the ‘Champion by the then owner, the late Flan Galvin. This was a particularly challenging time for the paper, when new technology and an expanding workforce led to the ‘Champion becoming one of the dominant players among regional newspapers. This meant keeping ahead of the curve on all aspects of the business and Pat was very much a part of that.
In his role as advertising manager, Pat brought flair to features, which became an important source of revenue for the paper. His local knowledge was key to this.
A colourful and sociable character, Pat was a great raconteur and a real people’s person. He was a well-liked and respected figure in the Roslevan area where he lived, as well as among his wide circle of friends and acquaintances.
He also branched out as both a singer and author in later life, releasing several music albums and a novel, “The Rage of Gain”.
Predeceased by his wife, Breda and daughter, Ursla, he is survived by his daughter, Helen; sons, Mark and Simon; daughter-in-law, Bridget; grandchildren, Hannah, Rachel and Tommy; great grandson Kian; sister-in-law, Maura; nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neigbhours.
A native of Ennis, Colin McGann has been editor of The Clare Champion since August 2020. Former editor of The Clare People, he is a journalism and communications graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology.