Westmeath mourns the late Gerry Doran

With so many different individuals and companies coming and going to and from Westmeath to supply retailers, among these, it takes a really special character to be remembered and known by all.Gerry Doran was one such character. The popular Dublin businessman, who touched the lives of so many people in Westmeath during his long career as a meat supplier, passed to his eternal reward on Sunday, November 15.Gerry's death came as a shock to all who knew him in these parts. The Dalkey man was in his 70s, and such was his lust for life and his good humour, that it's hard to believe such a life could come to an end.A very successful businessman, from humble beginnings Gerry built up his family business, Gerry Doran Bacon Company Ltd over the decades, creating a thriving enterprise which attracted custom nationwide.His travels took him to Westmeath, where he supplied local retailers, butchers and food outlets which top quality meats and bacon products. Such was his affinity with the Lake County that he became one of Westmeath's adopted sons.An ardent GAA supporter, Gerry followed Gaelic games in his home county with great enthusiasm, but reserved a special place in his heart for Westmeath. He delighted with the county's Leinster SFC success in 2004. Remarkably, he was also a great follower of club GAA in Westmeath, often lending his support to Mullingar Shamrocks.Much loved"Gerry was a very much loved person in the business and sporting communities of Westmeath," former Westmeath GAA chairman, Seamus Ó Faoláin told the Westmeath Examiner."There was palpable sadness when news of his death emerged. I went into Frayne's in Mullingar on the Monday morning, and they were just stunned. Likewise, I went to Michael Leonard's shop in Delvin, where both Michael and the people of the village were shocked and saddened."Gerry was a native Dub, followed the Dubs all his life. But in 2004, he was absolutely thrilled to see his adopted county defeat Dublin in the Leinster championship. He was a regular at Westmeath matches."He loved Mullingar and Westmeath, and while he was domiciled in Dalkey, he often said that he would like to retire to Westmeath."When he retired from work, he kept very much in touch with Westmeath people, and part of his weekly schedule was to get a copy of the Westmeath Examiner. He read it from cover to cover, and passed it on to another Westmeath person in exile living beside him."Mr. Ó Faoláin added that when Westmeath GAA carried out its major development at Cusack Park, Gerry was "very supportive", and was always first in for pitchside advertising.A keen follower of soccer, Gerry also reserved a place in his heart for his beloved West Ham United.A 'true Dub', Gerry was a great lover of Irish culture, and always had a great story to tell - something which will be remembered fondly by his many friends in Westmeath. He was also a profoundly religious man.He retired from the meat business three years ago, passing on a tremendous legacy to his sons.Heartbroken by the death of his wife Elizabeth (Bet) last year, Gerry is survived by their seven children, Ann (Comerford), Paula, Gerry, Stephen, Ken, Alan and Nicola; his brothers, sister, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchild, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends.Gerry was removed to the Church of the Assumption, Dalkey on Thursday last, November 12, with Requiem Mass celebrated for the repose of his soul on the following (Friday) morning.A large crowd attended the obsequies. Gerry was laid to rest at Shanganagh Cemetery.