Shock at passing of Declan Keane
There was widespread shock at the news of the untimely passing of former Rosemount GAA star, Declan Keane on Monday, November 24.
The late Mr Keane was a devoted husband and best friend to Anita, cherished father to Sarah, Orla, Niamh and Denise. Beloved son of Joe and Mary, brother to Paul, Colum and Maireád. His heartbroken family includes mother-in-law Bridie, brother-in-law Tom and Francis, sisters-in-law Claire and Pauline, niece Ciara, nephew Ronán, aunts, uncles. He will also be mourned by extended family members, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.
The Rosemount GAA Club has paid the following tribute:
Rosemount GAA are shocked and saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Declan Keane.
Declan has been a playing and coaching member of Rosemount since his earliest years, and his loss will be felt deeply throughout our club and community.
Declan represented Westmeath with distinction, being part of the Westmeath Minor panel in 1992 and the U21 panel in 1995—both of which reached Leinster Finals.
Throughout his playing career with Rosemount, Declan lined out in Senior, Intermediate, and Junior finals, giving everything to the black and amber jersey. He was an integral member of the Junior team in 2007, lining out at midfield in the county final and helping the club regain Intermediate status. He also proudly represented Rosemount in the Leinster Junior Final that same year. Declan’s footballing achievements extended beyond the club as he also won an All-Ireland title with Multyfarnham College - an honour he carried with great pride.
Declan retired from playing football in 2011 at the age of 37. Retirement only strengthened his commitment to coaching. He coached the U16 and Minor Boys and became a driving force within Cill Óige LGFA, coaching at many age levels. Declan spent two years coaching the Cill Óige U14s, helping to guide them to a Division 2 title in his very first year - an achievement he was incredibly proud of.
Declan never missed a Rosemount game at any level. Following in his father Joe’s footsteps - whether as a coach on the sideline, encouraging younger players, or simply supporting from the stand - Declan’s passion for Rosemount football was evident in everything he did.
Away from football, Declan had a lifelong passion for farming. It was not just his work but a vocation, one that shaped him deeply and brought him great contentment.
His connection to the land reflected the same dedication, patience, and pride he brought to coaching, to playing, and to every aspect of his life. Farming grounded him, fulfilled him, and was an integral part of who he was.
Above all, Declan’s world revolved around his beloved wife Anita and their daughters Sarah, Orla, Niamh, and Denise. They were his greatest joy, his proudest achievement, and the centre of everything he did. Declan’s dedication, warmth, and unwavering commitment made him a valued member of our GAA community. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with his wife Anita, daughters, Sarah, Orla, Niamh & Denise, his parents Joe & Mary, his siblings, Paul, Colum and Máiréad, the extended Keane family and his wide circle of friends at this very difficult time.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.