There is huge sadness across Donegal and in his native Galway of former bank manager John Coleman who has passed away suddenly.
A hugely-popular bank official with AIB, John arrived in the county in 1996.
Having joined AIB at the tender age of 17, John served as branch manager in Gweedore and Raphoe. In 2014, he was appointed as a Regional Manager and, based in Letterkenny, covers Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim.
He was equally well-known away from his banking roles and was only beginning to enjoy his retirement having left AIB in December of last year.
John enjoyed fitness and was a keen walker, hiker and climber.
After his retirement, John pencilled in a six-week trip to cover the 1,000km Via de la Plata Camino Route from Seville to Santiago de Compostela in March.
He was also an active volunteer with St Eunan’s GAA Club and only last weekend helped out at the rally campsite a O’Donnell Park.
Heartbroken members of the Letterkenny club this evening paid a touching tribute to a Galway man who made Letterkenny his adopted home
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A spokesperson for the club said “It is with profound sadness that we learned of the untimely passing of John Coleman.
“John was one of the most popular and well-liked figures in our club, a valued manager of one of our senior men’s teams, and a great supporter of everything we do. His warmth, generosity, and good humour made him a friend to so many, and he was held in the highest regard by all who knew him.
“Such was John’s commitment to the club that he was lending a hand at our Rally Campsite on Saturday, helping out as he so often did. It was a true reflection of the man he was — always willing to give his time, offer support, and help wherever he could.
“John gave so much to our club, and his presence around the grounds, on the sidelines, and among friends will be deeply missed. His dedication, friendship, and contribution to club life will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
“At this difficult time, we extend our deepest sympathies to John’s family, friends, teammates, and fellow club members. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all as they come to terms with this heartbreaking loss.
“May John Rest in Peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”