Richard Hogan, of Kings Channel, Co Waterford, was a retired financial controller at engineering firm Garrett, and inspired many through his passion for Gaelic games and voluntary work.
Mr Hogan died at home on Thursday, December 18, in the presence of his wife Veronica, after a long illness bravely borne. Throughout Richard’s illness, he was under the care of Waterford University Hospital, “meeting each day with courage, humour and his usual vibrant determination to live life fully,” according to his death notice.
He was a son of the late Thomas and Catherine (Kitty) (née Revilles), husband of Veronica (née Battye), and father of his children, Keith, Shane, Conor and David. He was a brother of Debbie and Ken. He is “deeply mourned by all his extended family, friends and devoted colleagues at Garrett. Richard will be sadly missed by all who knew him”.
His remains will repose in Tom Hennessy’s Funeral Home, Johnstown, Waterford on Monday, December 22, from 5pm to 7pm. The funeral entourage will walk to St John’s Church, Parnell Street at 11.40am on Tuesday, December 23, for requiem mass at 12pm. The burial will take place afterwards in St Declan’s Cemetery Riverstown, Tramore.
Condolences have been expressed from far and wide.
Colleagues at De La Salle GAA and Camogie Club said they are “deeply saddened to hear of the recent death of Richard Hogan”.
“Ritchie, as he was more commonly known to everyone, was a former player and administrator with our club has passed away too early in life.
“Apart from a short period when he was domiciled and working in Dublin, Ritchie has given over 50 years of continuous service to his beloved De La Salle be it as a an accomplished hurler – he played for Waterford at all ages up to and including U21 – a committed underage coach, or an extremely efficient administrator.
“He served as adult secretary at a very young age and more recently as underage secretary for many years. His four sons all played with the club. Apart from his friendly, bubbly personality, what you got from Ritchie was massive enthusiasm, extreme efficiency and total straightness.
“While bearing a long illness restricted him a little, he remained a very loyal De La Salle and Waterford hurling supporter, attending as many games as he possibly could.
“To his wife Veronica, sons Keith, Shane Conor and David, brother Ken sister Debbie and extended family we offer our deepest condolences.”
One friend of Richard’s wrote: “My sincere sympathy on the loss of Richard, husband, father, brother. I worked with Richard in the Iron Foundry in Bilberry, a genuine gentle person and much loved by all. Many a good laugh we all had in the Volkswagen Beetle with the wonky gears. God rest you Richard, thinking of your all your family at this sad time.”
Another mourner wrote: “Very sorry to read about Richard’s passing. I experienced first-hand the benefit of his wisdom and patience through his voluntary work some years ago. A very positive and engaging man. My condolences to all of Richard’s kin.”
Another friend wrote: “RIP Richard, I had the pleasure of knowing Richard for over 30 years. We hurled together when the factory started up a team. A true gentleman and was held in high regard by everyone that worked with him all the years. Sincere condolences to all Richard’s family.”
An old friend added: “Sincere condolences to Veronica and the extended Hogan family on the sad passing of Richard. I had the pleasure of hurling with Richard in his De La Salle days. He was also one of our five-a-side soccer group up in the college. He was taken much too soon. Rest in peace my friend.”