Heartbroken family of ferry operator who died after car entered water issue emotional message ahead of special funeral
Charles O'Malley
1
Charles O'Malley sadly passed away after his car entered the water on Tuesday afternoon
Credit: RIP.ie
The 88-year-old, who was better known as Charles Gerry, was sadly
A notice online told how he will be "sadly missed and remembered with love" by his wife Pauline, daughters Bernie, Maria and Cathriona, sons Charles and Gerard and brothers Michael and Josie.
It said Charles will also be mourned by his grandchildren and wider family, alongside his "wide circle of friends, the Island community and the many generations of people he skippered to Clare Island".
Following the tragic accident, Charles' family issued a special message of thanks to all those who assisted them and Charles on the day of the incident.
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It said: "The O'Malley family will be forever grateful to all those who assisted them and Charles on Tuesday May 6th, An Garda Siochana, the Coast Guard, Achill RNLI, and the Island community."
Charles reposed at Sweeney's Funeral Home in Louisburg yesterday, concluding with vigil prayers at 7pm.
This was followed by removal to his home via Roonagh Pier, where Charles travelled home on his own boat the 'Tormore'.
Removal from his home today will take place at 12:30pm, to arrive at the Church of the Sacred Heart on Clare Island for a 1pm mass.
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Boats will depart Roonagh Pier at 10:45am and 12pm today and leave from Clare Island at 4:30pm, 6pm and 8:30pm this evening.
Charles' family has requested family flowers only, with donations to the
Charles, who was the proprietor of O'Malley Ferries, has been remembered by mourners as a "wonderful seaman" who "always had a smile and a warm welcome" for those visiting Clare Island.
I'll never forget his big smile and hearty welcome every year I returned to Clare Island".
Mourner
One person said: "The loss of Charles Gerry to our Island is immeasurable.
"A man whose work ethic built up a powerhouse which now continues on by his sons and daughters and, especially, his grandchildren.
"He has skippered us all - 4 generations - with that glint in his eye and laughter.
"My love to Pauline and all his family. As my late father used to say 'we'll never see the likes of him again'."
Another mourner added: "Charles Gerry always had a smile and a warm welcome for me every time I went into the island.
"His gentle presence will be very much missed. Ar dheis Dé ar a anam."
A third said: "Charles will be missed by so many. He was warm and kind - a true gentleman.
"I'll never forget his big smile and hearty welcome every year I returned to Clare Island; even as far back as when I was a kid, going back to the island with my mother."
A spokesperson said: "Anyone with any information is asked to contact Westport Garda Station on 098 50230, the Garda Confidential line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station."
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