31 August 2010
Gerry O'Brien - RIP
The death has occurred of Gerry O’Brien (Clontarf) after a short illness.
A graduate of Belvedere College in Dublin, Gerry became involved in the Leinster Branch, rising to the position of Hon. Treasurer in 1980-’81 and branch chairman from 1982 to 1985. Then came his election as President-Elect of the Union, followed by the Presidency in February 1987, when he succeeded Connacht's Michael Hennelly.
After O'Brien's year as President, he was ex-officio in 1988 before becoming joint Honorary Secretary with the incumbent, Des Rea O'Kelly in 1989. This was to facilitate the honouring of Des with the Presidency of the Union during centenary year, which, of course, would have to be preceded by a year as President-Elect. So it was that in 1990, Gerry became full, Honorary Secretary a position he held for an unbroken 15 years, up to his retirement from GUI life in February 2005.
Gerry, who held the office of Captain in his home club Clontarf in 1972, also served as President in 1992 & 1993.
Though he once got down to three handicap, Gerry played most of his successful golf off four. As he once put it: "I always liked the idea of having two strokes for each nine." The highlight of his competitive golfing career was winning the Lord Mayor's Cup at his beloved Clontarf Golf Club in 1976.
Speaking to Dermot Gilleece in January 2005, Gerry recalled some memories from his time in office:
“Of the wonderful people it's been my privilege to meet," he said unhesitatingly. "There are countless numbers who have given wonderfully dedicated service to the game and some very special people whose friendships I will always treasure."
Funeral details are:
Removal to Chapel of Blessed Margaret Ball, Oscar Traynor Road, Santry, on Wednesday, 1st September at 6.00pm.
Funeral Mass on Thursday, 2nd September at 10.00am
May he rest in peace.