Obituary: Tom Gorman instilled hard work ethic in all his children

Milltownpass man, Tom Gorman, passed away peacefully at his home in Belfield on Friday, March 1, aged 91. Tom was a well-known plasterer by trade and took mighty pride in his work. He plastered hundreds of homes in his time, across the county and beyond.

Even though Tom has now passed, he will live on forever through his work, and his signature stamp, the child’s foot, can still be seen on the gable of his turf shed at home.

Tom was a true provider for his family and instilled his hard work ethic into each of his children.

Hearing stories about Tom’s work over the last few days brought huge comfort to his family.

While Tom never actually played football, he loved telling everyone else how, according to his wife Angie!

Despite never donning a jersey, Tom was one of the most treasured members and supporters of Milltownpass GAA, and his presence on the sideline, and in the stand, will be deeply missed.

At matches, Tom was probably best-known for his famous phrase ‘pick up the loose ones’ but he will go down in history at the club for holding the role of joint president for more than 40 years.

Tom was lucky enough to witness the ‘Pass win two junior championships, in 1980 and 2010, as well as an intermediate championship in 1981.

Tom was laid to rest with a Milltownpass scarf, so the black and white will always be close to his heart.

Many people’s fondest memories of Tom, revolve around the lotto.

He took the business of selling lotto tickets very seriously, and every Saturday night without fail, Tom would do his rounds – a ritual!

Tom also loved to sing. Every Sunday, he could be heard above everyone else in the Milltownpass church choir. He was a valued member and when he was well, he never missed Mass.

There was one song in particular that Tom loved to sing, but he definitely couldn’t belt it out at Mass, and that was Mary’s Ass.

Tom’s granddaughter Laura has taken it on in recent years and would give Tom a run for his money, but his banjo solo during Dirty Old Town will never be beaten.

Tom was fond of a good salad, which he prepped and chopped himself, and featuring ingredients from his own garden.

Tom was green fingered; he had his own vegetable patch and a greenhouse which was off limits to any curious grandkids.

In the summertime he produced the finest tomatoes, scallions, and lovely lettuce – once you could overlook the slugs!

Tom backed an odd horse, he enjoyed a few trips to Cheltenham and Aintree with his sons over the years, but Listowel was his favourite race meeting.

He was a regular attendee at the Kerry track, and Ballybunion was his place to stay.

When not picking winners, Tom also enjoyed playing cards, and was a bit of a shark at 25. He also never missed the bingo.

But the most important thing in his life was family. Family was everything. He cherished his beloved wife and best friend, Angie.

Having met in their teens, Tom and Angie were by each other’s side for more than 70 years.

They tied the knot in the 1950s and experienced life’s highs and lows together.

They shared many adventures, including trips to the land Down Under, and paid several visits to see Tom’s sisters, Molly and Kathleen, in Canada.

Tom was a loving father to 12 children.

He and Angie reared six girls, Nuala, Angela, Imelda, Siobhan, Eileen, and Olivia; and six boys, Eamonn, Dermot, Joey, Dessie, Fergus, and Ray.

They are utterly heartbroken and will be lost without their dear Dad. His lovely laugh and endearing smile will be remembered forever.

Tom was known as ‘Papa Gorman’ to his 39 grandchildren, and four great grandchildren (another is on the way). They already miss him more than words can describe.

Rest in peace Tom (Papa) Gorman.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.