Clara's Lord Mayor Paddy Dolan remembered

Family and friends are today (Monday) mourning the passing of Clara's own Lord Mayor Paddy Dolan. Speaking to the Offaly Independent friend, former school mate and Clara St Patrick's Day parade organiser Bertie McMahon said Paddy passed away on Sunday evening at approximately 6pm with his wife Rose and daughters Rachel, Georgina and Caroline by his side. Paddy was diagnosed with cancer in August 2012. Remembering his friend Bertie said Paddy was a true gentleman who was loved by all and said tribute will be paid to him at this year's St Patrick's Day parade in the town. "He loved his town and he was loved by all in this town," Bertie said of Paddy today. "I've never seen Paddy without a smile on his face and a friendly and kind word," he continued. "I remember him as a true gentleman and a true friend." The two were school mates in Clara's Franciscan Brothers School in the early 1950s. The talented footballer went on to join the Irish Army in 1964, along with fellow locals Oliver O'Connor and Joe Berry. He retired in the early years of this century. Paddy became Lord Mayor of Clara in 1985, and since then has never hesitated to take part in every St Patrick's Day parade and done "anything he was asked to do" according to Bertie. Paddy will be laid to rest after 11am Mass on Wednesday in Clara.