The late Frank McKeon, Woodside, Carrick Road, Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim and formerly of Lisacarn Ballinmore Co Leitrim
The late Frank McKeon,Woodside,Carrick Road, Drumshanbo, Co Leitrim,and formerly of Lisacarn, Ballinmore, Co Leitrim.
The death of Frank McKeon brings back memories of the great Seán O’Heslin’s teams of the 1960s. Frank partnered the legendary Thomas Galligan at midfield when the club took the 1964 Championship. O’Heslin’s had gone eight years without a senior title, a mini-famine for the club at the time. He was part of the Ballinamore three-in-a-row winning team from 1967 to 1969. Frank came on as a sub in the 1968 final but was at full-forward in the 1969 final win over Aughavas. In 1968, Frank went with the club on a memorable trip to New York. On the 22 September Ballinamore played New York, a team that were preparing to travel to Ireland to play the All-Ireland Champions, Down, in what was then called the World Cup. New York won by two points but it was one of Ballinamore’s greatest displays.
Frank moved to Drumshanbo in the midd 1970s after his highly successful playing career in Ballinamore which also included being part of the championship victory over Allen Gaels following a replay in 1973. A decade later he became involved as Manager with the local club when Allen Gaels languished in the Junior ranks. Franks impact was immediate with a Junior league win in 1986 and a Junior Achampionhip in 1987. With a young emerging team an Intermediate Championship followed in 1989 before the Clubs breakthrough senior championship victory in 1991. Ironically, Frank masterminded that win over his home club, Ballinamore Sean OHeslins. He was still at the helm in 1994 when Allen Gaels won the Senior League and were pipped by Aughawillan in a dramatic championship final. Frank retired as Manager in 1995 but served later as a selector. His contribution to both Allen Gaels and Ballinamore Sean O Heslins has been immense and he will be sorely missed.
Peileadóir den scoth agus fear uasal freisin. Trócaire Dé air.
Frank is predeceased by his daughter Carmal; Deeply regretted by his loving wife Bernadette, daughters Ruth, Sheila, Olive, and son Alan, sons-in-law Niall, Liam, and William, daughter-in-law Tonita, his thirteenÓgrandchildren, nieces, nephew, sister-in-law, extended family and a large circle of friends.
Remains reposing at his residence from 4pm to 9pm this Friday evening with family time thereafter please. Requiem Mass at 12 noon on Saturday in St. Patricks Church Drumshanbo followed by burial in Drumshanbo Cemetery.
10-Mar-17 by Sean O Suilleabhain/Fergal McPartland
