Dear Members,

August 2014 sadly saw Dundalk RFC lose one of it’s great members. Sean Gardiner came to Dundalk in the late 1960’s to join the family firm, Ovelle. He was already a committed rugby man with an allegiance to Blackrock R.F.C., where he remained a Life Member.

He joined Dundalk R.F.C. where he gave unstintingly to the life of the club. He played, served on committee and was a member of the Centenary Committee in 1977. He frequently dispatched Ovelle staff to pad posts in the club, in the days when posts were wrapped and ensured that Bowley had a plentiful supply of wintergreen always. Such was Sean’s love of the game that following his playing career he joined the ranks of the referees and enjoyed a career in that role. He also took great pleasure and enjoyed considerable success over the years in converting many GAA players to Rugby!

Sean was Club President from 1983 to 1985, a role he enjoyed and excelled in, with the opening of the Members Lounge and a Knutty Crust Cup victory among the highlights of his tenure. He continued his interest in the club up until recent times, attending matches and club events frequently.

Sean, always a gentleman, will be fondly remembered by all who knew him, particularly the Dundalk R.F.C. family.

Our deepest condolences to his wife Rosemary and children Joanna, Patrick and Zoe on their sad loss.

May he rest in peace. 

Dundalk RFC