Warm Mayo tributes to 'wonderful colleague and gentleman' Martin Sammon

The deceased served in a senior role at Mayo Mental Health Services (MMHS) for many years

The death of Martin Sammon, The Cedar’s, Breaffy Road, Castlebar, and Glenisland, and formerly of Chapel Street, has evoked a tremendous sense of loss and sorrow in the community.

A member of a widely- known and popular family, he died unexpectedly yesterday after a short illness in University Hospital Galway, surrounded by his loving family.

Predeceased by his parents Pat and Annie, uncle John and nephew Niall, he is deeply missed by his heartbroken family: wife Beatrice, sons Seán, Paul and David, daughter Louise, brothers Pat (Castlebar), Gerry (Ahascragh, Co. Galway), Fintan (Castlebar) and Brendan (Castlebar), sisters Marie Morris (Galway) and Denise Glendon (Castlebar), sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

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

In his early 60s, Martin served in a senior role at Mayo Mental Health Services (MMHS) prior to his retirement two years ago.

In his professional position, he had been held in very high regard and esteem throughout his career.

Martin was actively involved in the sport of kayaking for many years and was a loyal volunteer of Special Olympics and Downs Syndrome Mayo.

Since his retirement he enjoyed spending time on his farm in Glenisland.

Warm tributes are being paid to him on social media.

"I enjoyed training in MMHS under Martin's watchful eye, a wise and deliberate man and great conversationalist on any topic," one stated.

Another said: "Martin is one of the finest people I have worked or paddled with. Many fine memories and great days on the water together. Such a shock to us all. We will always remember his joviality and endearing smile. He will be forever missed."

"He was a wonderful colleague, a gentleman," a further tribure added.

May his gentle rest in peace.

The funeral arrangements will be announced later.