Tribute to a hero of the GAA in Ardcath
OBITUARY: Gerry Cromwell
The parish of Ardcath is coming to terms with the death of one of its favourite heroes. Gerry Cromwell was laid to his eternal rest in Ardcath cemetery on 21st October last.
Gerry was a gentle giant with an infectious smile and disposition. He was a natural sportsman with a keen eye for all outdoor activities, horse racing, golf, Gaelic football and handball.
His footballing career started in Stamullen with St Patrick's GFC as a minor as there was no under -age set-up in Ardcath at the time. From then on it was his beloved St Vincent's. Gerry had a long and distinguished career with St Vincent's and along with his brothers Val, Martin, Vincie and Tony, formed the backbone of the team at various times over a number of years, with Sean in a supportive role.
Gerry was in his prime in 1963 when as captain, St Vincent's lost to a very strong Navan O'Mahonys team in the club's last Keegan Cup SFC final.
He played a primary role for the Royals from 1954 until injury curtailed his intercounty footballing career in 1964, depriving him of involvement in Meath’s success in 1967.
He would regale the faithful about his second goal, set up by Mick Dunican, against Cavan in Drogheda in a National League play-off which Meath won.
Gerry maintained his support for the club and was a regular at various functions and fundraising events over the years. Nothing pleased Gerry better than the official opening of Masterson Park in 2019 and the honour of officiating at the ceremonial throw up between Meath and Roscommon. This was one of his proudest days.
As we part company with Gerry it is ironic that as he drew his last breath St Vincent's had breathed new life into the parish with victory in the Junior Final. Thus taking the club to Intermediate status where Gerry and his father Joe, in 1941, once excelled.
The players and committee past and present formed a guard of honour accompanying Gerry on his final journey, adhering to Covid-19 regulations.
Gerry was predeceased by his parents, his sister Maureen and brothers Sean, Val and Vincie.
St Vincent's offers its sincerest condolences to the Cromwell family on the death of Gerry, to his wife, Pauline; family, Michael, Joanne, Gerard, Ronan and Aoife, grandchildren, brothers Martin and Tony, extended family, neighbours and friends.
- St Vincent’s GFC