Bereavement of Down Referee

Tuesday 4th December 2018

Coiste Chontae an Duín are saddened to learn today of the death of Pat Rooney of Castlewellan one of the most outstanding referees of his time and a man who went on to Referee a record 8 County Senior Football Finals. A much respected official Pat refereed the 1961 All Ireland Junior Football Final Louth v Galway and a week later refereed the All Ireland Minor Football Final Cork v Mayo. 

The fact that Down were in every Ulster Senior Final from 1959 to 1969 meant that Pat missed out on the honour of refereeing an Ulster Senior Final.

His outstanding contribution to Gaelic Games in the County  was acknowledged at the Centenary County Dinner in 2003 when he was awarded the spirit of Down award for refereeing, the awards were presented on the night in acknowledgement of four people who had given outstanding personal commitment to the Gaelic Athletic Association in Down over a lasting period and reflecting the faithful contribution of those whose dedication has fostered and enriched the spirit of Down.

Pat was also a winner of the Hall of Fame award with his Club Castlewellan and with Down GAA joining Martin Walsh and in recent times Seán O Neill as recipients of the honour from the County.

We extend our deepest sympathy to Pat's Sons, Daughters, grandchildren, brothers and sisters along with the entire Rooney family circle and to the Gaels of Castlewellan on this sad occasion.

Ar Dheis Dé go Raibh a anam.

Funeral Arrangements

 Pat Rooney (Castlewellan) 3/12/2018. Peacefully at Greenvale Private Nursing Home, Pat, dearly beloved husband of the late Mary and cherished father of Maura, Patrick, Caroline, Sharon and Philip R.I.P.

Pat’s remains will leave his late home 19 Mill Hill Castlewellan on Thursday at 9.15am to arrive at St. Malachy’s Church Castlewellan for 10.00am Requiem mass, burial afterward in family burial ground Aughlisnafin.

On his soul sweet Jesus have mercy.

Deeply regretted by his sorrowing daughters, sons, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and entire family circle.

Mary Queen of the Gael pray for him.