A Tribute to Mr. Desmond O'Hagan
Appeared in The Newry Reporter 9th February 1989
The town of Warrenpoint is mourning at the death of one of it's most popular and best loved friends, Des O'Hagan.
After long years of illness, borne with silent resignation, Des finally succumbed to the inevitable. The funeral cortege was attended by many hundreds of friends, bearing witness to the popularity of a man who, in his lifetime, was such an inspiration in life to his beloved Warrenpoint.
Des was a man of many talents, having in his youthful years, been a key member of St. Peters G.A.A. Senior Football team. Such was his natural ability on the field of sport that his name is enrolled in the annals of the Club.
Founder Member
Des possessed a fine tenor voice and for almost half of his short lifetime was a leading singer in the choir of St. Peter's Church. His love of music was a cherished possession and as always wishing to share his natural gifts, he and his close friend, Jim Cooper, founded the Cloughmore Male Voice Choir, which has brought many honours to the town of Warrenpoint.Sadly, the early stages of disease which finally claimed his life, forced Des, to resign from the ranks of his beloved choir, which sang so beautifully at his Funeral Mass.
Des was not content to sit idly by in the world of music, and became a member of the G.A.A. Silver Band where he played so proudly. His fellow band members shed a tear at his passing and recalled with affection the jovial and happy days he spent gracing their ranks.
Once again, Des was compelled to resign from his musical fellowship with the band, but was always proud to attend their public appearances. He would have a smile of satisfaction as the band played as his remains entered the and left the church.
Family Pride
Des O'Hagan will forever be remembered for his sparkling personality and subtle wit. His very presence lightened the saddening heart and his unique turn of phase brought a smile to everyone's lips. Des went through life with arms outstretched, ever ready to help, console and offer friendly advice.His pride in his family took precedence over all as he devoted himself to the care and love of his wife, Anna who nursed him through his long illness and his three precious daughters Pauline, Noreen and Aileen. For them, a brilliant light has gone from their lives, but they are consoled by their many happy memories of a devoted father.
Des has gone from us, but he has left we who were privileged to know him, a legacy rich in humour strong in friendship, steadfast in the face of adversity and total acceptance in the Will of God.
His passing has left a void that cannot be filled.
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