Tributes flow in following passing of popular former Offaly politician

One of Offaly's most respected former politicians will be laid to rest tomorrow.

Edenderry's Noel Bourke passed away peacefully on Saturday in the wonderful care of Ofalia House, Edenderry.

Bourke, of Killane, Edenderry, and formerly of Roscrea, Tipperary, was a Fianna Fáil councillor on Offaly County Council from 1991 to 2019.

Noel was widely respected across the political sphere in Offaly, for his sense of public service and his approachable, open nature.

Extensive tributes have been paid since news of his passing emerged..

Fianna Fáil TD for Offaly Tony McCormack said Noel was not only a former Fianna Fáil Councillor and Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, but also a man who gave so much of himself to his community.

"Originally from Roscrea, where his family ran a grocery shop, Noel moved to Offaly in the 1960s and began his career as a fitter in Lullymore Briquette Factory before moving into HR with Bord na Móna, where he worked for many years. Those of us who knew Noel will remember him for his kindness, his wisdom, and above all, his deep love for his family and his community. He was a true gentleman, thoughtful, genuine, and always ready to lend a helping hand.

"May Noel’s gentle soul rest in peace. He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him."

Edenderry area councillor Claire Murray Smale said: "Throughout his many years of public service, he was an excellent councillor, deeply committed to his community, always willing to listen, and dedicated to helping resolve issues for the people he represented. His legacy will live on in many projects throughout the area.

"He was an inspiration to younger councillors and a wonderful example of what true public service should be. I was fortunate to have his support last year during local and the general elections," she said, passing on her deepest sympathies to his wife Carmel, his family, and his many friends."

Edenderry Fianna Fáil Cumann said: "Noel will be sadly missed by all in the Edenderry Cumann. Noel served Edenderry and North Offaly with distinction and great dedication. He chaired many committees during his political career including Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council. We are all very proud of his achievements.

"The Cumann extend their sympathy to his wife Carmel and son Donny as well as the extended family," the social media post said.

Noel will repose in Larkins Funeral Home this Monday from 3 to 6pm and his funeral mass will take place at 12noon on Tuesday. Fianna Fáil Edenderry Cumann will be proud to provide a guard of honour for his funeral.

Predeceased by his parents Paddy and Bridie, and his brothers Liam and Jim, he will be deeply regretted and sadly missed by his loving family: wife Carmel, son Donny, sister Betty and her husband Frank, daughter-in-law Sara, grandsons Pierce and Dylan, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, niece, nephews, relatives and friends.

Noel is reposing at Larkin's Funeral Home, Edenderry (R45 VK24) today (Monday) from 3pm to 6pm with Rosary at 6pm. His Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday at 12 noon in St. Mary's Church, Edenderry followed by burial in St. Mary's cemetery.

You can also take part in Noel's Funeral Mass here