Published: Wednesday, 10th June, 2009 1:00pm

Shock at passing of Des Murtagh

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There was shock among the construction industry and business community following the sudden death of Desmond (Des) Murtagh in Cavan General Hospital on Friday afternoon last.

A native of Corfad, Cootehill, he established Des Murtagh Construction following his return from the States and will be remembered in this region for constructing the magnificent Castlemanor Nursing Home at Drumalee on the outskirts of Cavan town.

His brother Patrick said: 'When it comes to saying a few words about a death one wonders where to start and where to finish. Des served his time in carpentry and went to America in 1992 and after working a week decided to set up shot on his own.'

Making friends quickly among the Irish/American community, fast cars, jet skis and the odd party seem to be the order of the day.

Soon he put his skills to work hiring and firing on the way and he shortly found his niche giving orders rather than taking them. Making lots of friends along the way, time passed quickly, but Desmond always made regular trips home.

He decided to return back in 2001 much to the delight to all who knew him. Dublin was his next stop and traffic moved a little to slow, so it was back to Cavan and any field in his Range Rovers.

Again he forged quality friendships and shortly Des Murtagh Construction vans were a regular sight around Cavan town. He truly loved his work, enjoyed life, always had a word for everyone young and old. Desmond was the glue that held his family and he will be terribly missed by his mother Nora, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, and nieces.

'The family would like to thank everyone who supported us in this sad time and together we hope to continue Des"s great work, which he would want,' said his brother Patrick. His removal took place on Monday evening to St. Brigid"s Church, Kill, and his funeral took place yesterday (Tuesday) to the adjoining cemetery.