The late John Whittle, who passed away on October 26th.
The death occurred on Wednesday, October 26th of John Whittle, of Ard na Groí, Tramore. His untimely passing was greeted with shock and great sadness by the communities of Tramore, Dunmore East and his native Waterford, and indeed by his many friends and business colleagues nationwide and beyond.
Many tributes have been paid to John, but common amongst them all was an acknowledgement that John was a true gentleman.
Quiet and unassuming, John had, throughout his life, extended a hand of friendship, and responded with kindness and courtesy to all he met.
John was the son of the late John and Margot Whittle. His early years were spent in Marian Park and Cleaboy. As a youth, John played soccer with Bohemians FC and with Waterford Youths and showed much promise.
After first level education at Saint Declan’s Primary School and De La Salle College, John attended university in Dublin.
Upon his return to Waterford, John joined his father in the family business of MJ Flanagan Fish Merchants where he continued to work, with his brother Brendan, until his untimely death.
Always interested in new ideas and innovation, John continued to expand the business. He was always conscious that any good enterprise was dependant on the people who worked in it, and was always grateful to the staff of Flanagan’s for their support.
If kindness and courtesy could be said to characterise his personal life, then integrity could best describe his business life.
John met Dolores Ivory in the early 1970s and they married in Killea Church 1973. Unfortunately, Dolores was struck with a severe and debilitating illness. Throughout her illness, John nursed and cared for Dolores in a kind and loving manner. Sadly, Dolores died in 1998.
John subsequently had the good fortune to meet Anne-Laure. After some time, John and Anne-Laure (Aine) married and eventually settled in Tramore.
John was overjoyed when twin girls, Eloise and Agnes were born in 2006, and for the next 10 years they became the focus of his life. They brought joy and happiness to his life, which was richly deserved.
Like everything else in his life, John faced his illness with courage and resilience, ever grateful for the care he received at University Hospital Waterford, at the Whitfield Clinic and from the palliative care team who attended him at home.
John’s remains were removed to the Holy Cross Church Tramore on Friday, October 28th, where Father Shane O’Neill presided, with burial the following day. There also was a large attendance of family, friends and representatives of the fishing community in attendance.
Aine’s parents and sisters travelled from France to attend the funeral service, while members of the Dunmore East Golf Club formed a guard of honour at the entrance to the church.
John is survived by his wife Aine, daughters Agnes and Eloise, brother Brendan, sister Anne Schnittger, mother and father in-law, nieces, nephew, relatives and friends, including his great friend Des Purcell. May he Rest in Peace.