Community mourns passing of Kildare businessman

THE community of Moone and beyond is in mourning following the death of well-known local businessman Charlie Wynne last week.

Mr Wynne ran a successful agricultural merchants and animal feed business in Moone since 1978, with a second branch in Tullow.

Mr Wynne died peacefully on 20 July at St Luke’s General Hospital, Kilkenny, having previously been well cared for by the staff at SignaCare Killerig.

Mr Wynne is survived by his wife Hazel and children Sandra, Nigel, Debbie and Andrew.

Chairperson of Kildare IFA Denis Halpin paid tribute.

“He was a very good neighbour to everybody down there, and did an awful lot of things quietly around the place,” said Mr Halpin.

“He was a great buyer of the native grains for all his fields, and would’ve sold his feed all over the country. His was the Ferrari of feed.” Charlie was also deeply involved in the local sports scene, with tributes left by both the soccer and GAA clubs in the locality.

“Charlie was a wonderful supporter of Castle Villa and someone who made a lasting contribution to soccer throughout Co Kildare,” said Tommy O’Connell, president of the club in a post on social media.

“More than 30 years ago he was one of the first and most important sponsors to help get the Kildare Soccer League up and running.

“He also donated a cup to the league which continues to be played for to this day, a fitting and lasting reminder of his generosity and support for the game.

“Charlie will be fondly remembered by everyone at Castle Villa and by many people throughout the Kildare football community.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Charlie’s family, friends and those who knew him at this very difficult time, offered Tommy.” A similar tribute was forthcoming from his local GAA club.

“Kiltegan GAA extend our sincere sympathies to the Wynne family on the death of Charles R. (Charlie) Wynne,” said the club.

“Our condolences to Charlie's wife Hazel and his children Sandra, Nigel, Debbie and Andrew, and his grandchildren Nathan, Pannonica, Clodoveo and Zhyaire.

“To his brother Mervyn and family in Talbotstown, you are all in our thoughts at this difficult time.

“Charlie was a loyal sponsor of Kiltegan GAA Club over many years and through his sponsorship he helped our club develop and progress to what it is today.

“As a mark of respect, a minute's silence was observed in Charlie's memory before the Junior League Final on 22 July, and Charlie will always be remembered fondly here in Kiltegan GAA.” Mr Wynne’s funeral was held on Friday, in St James’ Church, Castledermot, and was buried in St John Baptist Church, Stratford, in Wicklow.