ARCOIreland regrets to inform its members of the death of Colonel Hugh O’Connor, Friary View, Kildare Town, County Kildare and formerly of Kanturk, County Cork. On 11th March 2019 after a short illness borne with great dignity, courage and humour, surrounded by his loving family and in the exceptional care of the staff of St. Brigid’s Hospice, The Curragh. Beloved husband of Eileen for fifty-eight years, dearly loved father of Hugo, Ann, David and Conor. Deeply missed by his daughters-in-law Fiona, Linda and Audrey and affectionately “Popeye” to his precious grandchildren Andrew (and wife Clíona), Alyson, India, Portia, Katie, Holly, Alex, Coco and Johnny, his extended family and many friends.
Carpe Diem
Hugh O’Connor was born in Kanturk, County Cork in July 1934. He was a member of 28 Cadet Class and was commissioned in November 1955. He served in the Cavalry Corps in 4 Motor Squadron, Depot Cavalry, 1 Motor Squadron and in staff appointments in Headquarters Curragh Command and in Defence Forces Headquarters in Training Section and in Planning and Research Section. He commanded 1 Armoured Car Squadron and was Officer Commanding Depot Cavalry. He was Director of Reserve Forces in 1992 and Director of Cavalry from December 1992 until his retirement in July 1994.
Hugh served overseas in Cyprus in 1964 with the Armoured Car Group of 40 Infantry Battalion and later with 10 Infantry Group in 1968; he seved in Lebanon as the Reconnaissance Group Commander 45 Infantry Battalion in 1979 and as the commander of the Force Mobile Reserve in 1988/89. He was an observer in the Middle East with the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation in 1973/74.
Reposing at home from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday, 12th March 2019. Removal from home on Wednesday, 13th at 1.30pm for 2pm Funeral Mass in the Carmelite Church, Kildare Town. Cremation Service at 3pm on Thursday, 14th in Mount Jerome, Harold’s Cross, all welcome. Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to Friends of St. Brigid’s Hospice, The Curragh.
