Tony Devane

It was with deep shock that we learned of the recent sudden death of our friend and retired colleague in Limerick, Tony Devane.

Tony had overcome a quadruple bypass in 1990 and a heart valve replacement prior to his retirement and had made a great recovery.

Always a 'Networks' man, Tony was widely known and respected throughout ESB but particularly in Networks where he had worked for nearly 40 years. Initially working on 38kV line surveying, Tony then came to Portlaoise where he was to stay for 27 years. In 1995 he returned to his native Limerick where he remained until his retirement in 2004.

Tony was very involved in the Trade Union end of the business, having been part of reorganisation and job evaluation where he was known and respected as a tough but fair and skilled negotiator. Tony's popularity was reflected in the huge numbers of ESB colleagues, present and retired, as well as outside bodies who attended his funeral in Limerick. On a personal level, Tony was an excellent bridge player in his early days and was a well known DIY enthusiast who would lend his help and support to anyone who needed it.

Heavily involved in golf and the Lions Club in both Portlaoise and Limerick, Tony set up a Lions Club in the Castletroy area when he returned to his native city. Both clubs and the Golf Clubs in Castletroy and The Heath formed Guards of Honour at his funeral. The son of a famous publican, Dick Devane, in Limerick, Tony couldn't be put a keen follower of both Shannon and Munster rugby and travelled abroad to watch the teams on many an occasion.

We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife Kate and sons Ronan and Rory and to his extended family. May he rest in peace.