THERE is much sadness across the sporting community in Donegal today with the news of the passing of the county’s own ‘Mr Boxing’, Peter O’Donnell.

The Raphoe man dedicated much of his life to the sport he loved.

He passed away peacefully earlier today.

President of the County Donegal Boxing Board since 2012, Peter was undoubtedly one of the leading figures in boxing here in the north west.

As PRO of Donegal Boxing for many years, he became a valued friend of those working in local media in Donegal, writing up his weekly boxing reports and ensuring that the sport received coverage in the papers and on local radio.

His weekly visits to our newsroom over the years were lit up by his warm and friendly personality.

Peter had friends in the sport not just in Ireland but beyond these shores. He was the ring announcer for many years at the National Stadium and also managed Ireland teams at a host of prestigious tournaments all over Europe.

And while he took great pride in working with some of the best boxers this country has produced, he was almost happier to watch our own young boxers enjoy progress and success in the sport at a local level.

Raphoe Boxing Club coach Peter O’Donnell.

He was a driving force behind his beloved Raphoe Boxing Club and played no small part in the careers of so many local boxers who went on to achieve major success at a national and world level.

Peter will be lovingly missed by his wife, Pauline, his children, Rory (Orla), Edel (Donal), and Paul (Holly); his grandchildren, Caolin, Ryan, Amber, Zoe, Harper, Luca, and Gracie; his sisters and brothers, Mary, Willie, Jim, Hugo, Paul, Marjory, Sally, and Grainne, his sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and all his extended family and friends.

Peter was predeceased by his mother, Madge and father, Willie.  

Funeral Arrangements:

Sunday, private to family.

Peter will repose at his late residence at Demesne, Raphoe, F93 E763. on Monday from 11am to 10pm and on Tuesday from 11am to 10pm. 

Rosary will be recited each evening at 9pm.

The funeral cortege will leave his late residence on Wednesday, October 22 at 10am travelling via Raphoe Boxing Club and The Diamond to St. Eunan’s Church, Raphoe, for 11am Requiem Mass, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

Extra parking available at SOS Tyres F93R6KW

Family flowers only please donations in lieu if desired to Irish Cancer Society c/o any family member or Kelly’s Funeral Directors, Oakfield, Raphoe.

The Mass may be viewed on the Parish of Raphoe webcam via https://parishofraphoe.ie.