A generation of footballers will be forever grateful for all Liam did

TYMON North man Liam Kavanagh has been remembered for his passion for and commitment to St Anne’s GAA Club in Bohernabreena, and his outgoing and friendly demeanor, after he passed away last month aged 81.

Originally from Naas, Liam first became acquainted with Dublin 24 when he began dating Bohernabreena woman Kathleen, who he married in 1973.

He used to hitch a lift or get the bus to Newlands Cross, and would then walk from there to Bohernabreena to see Kathleen in the early days of their courtship.

The couple lived in Naas for several years after they got married. While there, Liam was heavily involved in GAA circles, before moving to Tymon North in 1979 – where the couple lived for the last 43 years.

The Kavanaghs raised their five sons, Derek, Mark, Liam, Patrick and Michael, in Tymon and Liam passed on his passion for GAA to his sons.

They started playing for St Anne’s, as it was their mother’s home club, in the late 80s and this also marked the beginning of Liam’s long-standing involvement in the club.

Liam’s son, Mark, told The Echo: “Initially, he was a supporter going to his sons’ matches but in time he began coaching and mentoring teams, from U10 to minor, over the years.

“He was appointed the first juvenile chairman in St Anne’s in the 90s.

“As juvenile chairman he coerced and cajoled parents, and adult playing members, to get involved in the juvenile section as coaches, mentors and managers.

“He was also an unofficial recruitment officer for St Anne’s. His sons attended Drimnagh Castle and while watching their matches he identified some of the best players on these teams and convinced them to sign for St Anne’s.

“He was heavily involved in fundraising and organised numerous gigs in support of St Anne’s in the Cuckoo’s Nest and the St Anne’s clubhouse.

“These fundraising events helped towards the many trips he organised to Clonakilty and Glasgow for various St Anne’s teams.”

Outside of his involvement in GAA, Liam was also a familiar face to many in the community, and was popular and well-liked.

“Liam was friendly and outgoing. He always greeted people with a smile and a slagging,” added Mark.

“He was also very determined, hardworking and helpful. Friends, neighbours and relatives could always rely on him to help when needed.

“He was well-known and liked in his local community, whether at a match or having a pint in the Cuckoo’s Nest – he always seemed to know everybody and had time for a chat or a joke with people.”

Liam, alongside Kathleen, also had an interest in gardening and the couple’s showstopping garden is a popular focal point in Tymon North.

“His gardens were a huge passion,” said Mark, “and both himself and Kathleen worked tirelessly to keep them in top condition.

“Everybody that passed by the house would stop at some stage to comment and praise his good work. On occasion, it was used by members of the parish for their wedding photos.”

However, when reflecting his father’s lasting legacy, Mark said: “A generation of St Anne’s footballers will forever be grateful for all he did for St Anne’s juveniles.”

Liam Kavanagh, who passed away peacefully at home on February 20, is survived by his wife Kathleen, his sons Derek, Mark, Liam, Patrick and Michael, and his grandchildren, Eoghan, Jamie, Erin, Shay, Charlie, Isabella and Adam.

Liam’s funeral Mass was held in St Aengus’ Church in Balrothery on Wednesday, February 23, followed by burial in Bohernabreena Cemetery.