Passing of Former Down “Great” - 1960’s
All Ireland Winner Pat Rice
Gaels throughout Down and further afield
were saddened to learn of the sudden death of former 1960’s All Ireland winner
Pat Rice.
The Castlewellan Club man, passed away
peacefully at 1.30am on Friday 6th May. His wife, family, and close friends and
relatives were at his bedside.
Pat played for Down in their historical
halcyon day’s of the 60’s and his achievement's at county level included:
2 All-Ireland Senior Football
Championship Medals in 1960 and '61 playing at left full back, 2 National League
medals in '60 and ‘62, 2 Railway Cup medals in '60 & ‘63, 3 Ulster Senior
Football Championship medals in '59, '60 & '61, a St Brendan Cup medal in 1960
when Down defeated New York in Dublin, and 4 Dr McKenna Cup medals, as well as a
Dr Lagan Cup medal. The late Pat also played on two defeated Ulster Railway Cup
teams. He also gained recognition when selected to play for Ireland against the
Combined Universities - the equivalent of an All Star today. In 1966 Pat was
captain of the Down Junior Team, which was defeated by Cork in the All-Ireland
final.
Pat enjoyed his county career with Down
and his All-Ireland successes but there was nothing he wouldn’t do for his
beloved club – Castlewellan GAC. He served Castlewellan club in many roles
including playing at various levels, a faithful committee man for most of his
adult life including a spell as Club chairman, and senior team manager.
To his devoted wife Rosaleen, daughter
Patricia, son in law Martin, grandchildren (Christine, Niall, Gareth and Cormac)
and brother Jim, Down Gaels offer their most sincere condolences.
Funeral arrangements - Remains will
leave his home at Burrenwood Road Saturday evening at 6.00pm for 6.30pm mass in
St Malachy's Church Castlewellan. Funeral mass on Sunday 8th June at 11.30pm
followed by burial in Aughlisnafin cemetery.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dhílis
Coiste Chontae An Dúin
