Death of boat builder Ron O’Rourke

By Dan Walsh

There is mourning in the Rosslare Harbour district and further afield at news of the death of Ron O’Rourke.

Ron was many things over the course of his life. A seafarer who understood the rhythms and realities of the water.

A skilled boat builder and carpenter whose work quite literally took shape in timber and craft. He built a few boats in recent years.

And a musician, bringing people together in the way that only music can. His party piece was the lifeboat song, ‘Home From The Sea’.

But beyond all of that, he was, first and foremost, a gentleman. The kind of person whose presence was quietly felt, whose knowledge was generously shared, and whose company was genuinely valued by those lucky enough to know him.

Sincere condolences to Ron’s family and friends. Fair winds, following seas and Steady As She Goes to a dear shipmate, Ron.

FAMILY NOTICE; The death has occurred of Ron O’Rourke, Tuskamore Terrace, Rosslare Harbour, Co. Wexford, March 17^th 2026, beloved husband of the late Mary, and loving father of Alan, Eamonn, Brian and Siobhan; brother of the late Molly, Berna and Angela, sadly missed by his family, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers-in-law, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

May He Rest In Peace.

Reposing Mulligans Funeral Home, The Faythe, Wexford, on Friday from 3pm until 6pm. Funeral Mass in St. Patrick’s Church Rosslare Harbour on Saturday at 12noon. Burial afterwards in St. Aidan’s Cemetery Kilrane.