ARCO regrets to inform its members of the death of Captain Pat Nolan Boreenmanna Road, and formerly of Nolan’s Newsagents, Shandon Street, Cork City. On Wednesday, February 4th, 2026, unexpectedly, but peacefully at the Cork University Hospital. Beloved brother of Seán (John), loving brother-in-law of Helen, adored uncle of Caroline. Sadly missed by his loving family, grandnieces Anna and Éabha, grandnephew James, Caroline’s husband Bryan, relatives, neighbours, Defence Forces comrades, and friends, especially Eric, Bene and Ben.
Music that gentlier on the spirit lies, than tired eyelids upon tired eyes
Pat Nolan was born in Cork City where his family ran a newsagent’s business in the heart of the city. He enlisted in the Defence Forces as a bandsman at the age of 28 and was posted to the Band of the Southern Command. Pat completed a Bachelor of Music degree in University College Cork and was very appropriately commissioned as an officer of Óglaigh na hÉireann in his native city at the Gymnasium in Collins Barracks. After serving as an Instructional Officer in the Defence Forces School of Music in Cathal Brugha Barracks, Dublin, Pat was appointed Conductor of the Band of the Southern Command. An innovative and forward-thinking conductor, Pat greatly enhanced the public appeal of military music through numerous public recitals and concerts. He made many memorable, enjoyable, and especially lively contributions to the Annual Massed Bands Concerts. On retirement, Pat joined our colleague Captain Bob Seward at the Cork Academy of Music, where he gave many years of exceptional service both as a Tutor and Director.
Reposing at the Temple Hill Funeral Home, Boreenmanna Road of Jerh O’ Connor Limited on Saturday (February 7th) from 10.00am followed by Funeral Service at 11.00am. Burial afterwards to Saint Finbarr’s Cemetery.
Members may wish to leave personal messages in the ‘Condolences’ section of Pat’s death notice on rip.ie at: https://rip.ie/death-notice/capt-pat-nolan-cork-boreenmanna-road-620713
