Mayo grieves the passing of 'a great gentleman' Bernie Ludden

The death of Bernie Ludden, 8 Fr. Angelus Park, Westport, and formerly St. Bridget’s Crescent Castlebar, is deeply mourned across west Mayo

He died peacefully in the exceptional and loving care of the staff at Cuan Chaitriona Nursing Home, Castlebar.

A member of the outdoor staff of the former Westport Urban Council for many years, his work in keeping the streets spick and span contributed in no small to the town's emergence as a major force year after year in the National Tidy Towns competition.

Many lovely tributes have been paid to him on social media since his passing.

"I have very fond memories of working with Bernie at Peter Ryan's Veterinary in 1960s. Bernie always had a friendly smile and time for a chat when I meet him in Westport," one stated.

Another said: "An unassuming gentleman who was front of house in his day in keeping Westport beautiful. Peaceful rest Bernie."

A further tribute observed: "Bernie did great work for Westport and was greatly appreciated by the UDC - a great gentleman who will be long remembered."

Bernie will be sadly missed and remembered forever with love by all his family: his wife Nan, son Bernard, daughters Marion and Ann, his daughter-in-law Bernie, sons-in-law Noel and Sean, his adored grandchildren Oisín, Ferdia, Cian, Neasán, Sean, Ciara, Dearbhla, Ruairí, Saoirse, Darragh, great-granddaughter Ríona, nieces, nephews, neighbours and many friends.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their loss.

Bernie was a brother of the late Denis, Pat, Peter, Frank, Mike, Tommy, Jack, Bridgie (Guthrie), Mary (Richardson) and Margaret (Fitzgibbon).

Burial took place in Aughavale Cemetery last Monday after Requiem Mass in St. Mary’s Church, Westport.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.