By Dan Walsh
The death has taken place of well-known and highly respected Gorey businessman Joe Funge who served as a public representative and was dedicated to a lifetime of community service.
In 1960, Joe learned his trade in Arnott’s, Dublin, before joining the family business on Gorey’s Main Street. The family business was enlarged and embellished from 1973 when it transferred from a family business to a registered company under the title ‘Funges of Gorey’.
Joe was also a public representative and in 2004, Cllr Funge stepped down after 25 years of public service, which began on the retirement of his father Tomás, who served on Gorey Town Commissioners for 45 years.
Joe was first elected in 1979 as a representative of the Traders’ Association before he joined Fianna Fáil. He served on the Town Commissioners and the Town Council and held the chain of office on four occasions.
Deputy Brian Brennan called Joe Funge “a true gentleman” in his tribute. On a personal note, I had a long and successful relationship with Joe through the media, and he was particularly helpful and supportive when I worked as a journalist with The Gorey Echo.
Joe was deeply involved in his hometown and friendly with all. His lifelong contributions will be recognised, and his absence will be deeply felt within the community. May Joe Rest in Peace.
FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of JOE FUNGE, Hollyfort Road, Gorey, (and formerly Funge’s, Main Street, Gorey). Joe died peacefully at home on December 26th.
Dearly loved husband of Anne and loving father of Kieran, Colm, Fergal and Eilish, brother of Michael and the late Paul. Will be very sadly missed by his wife, sons, daughter, grandchildren Clodagh, Ali, Cáelán, Darragh, Aaron, Anna, Tom, Eve, Lucy, Joseph and Michael, daughters-in-law Robin, Moira and Sonia, son-in-law Walter, sister-in-law Lynn, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Reposing at Murphy’s Funeral Home, The Avenue, Gorey on Sunday, December 28th from 4 pm until 7pm. Removal from Murphy’s Funeral Home on Monday at 11.30am to St. Michael’s Church Gorey for Funeral Mass at 12 noon followed by Burial in St. Michael’s Cemetery Gorey.
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