THERE is widespread sadness at the passing of former Donegal councillor Enda Bonner.
Mr Bonner died at the age of 76 yesterday.
From Dungloe, Mr Bonner was a Fianna Fáil politician who sat in the Seanad from 1997 until 2002.
He was also a councillor for the Glenties Municipal District from 1999 until 2019.
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin has led the tributes to Mr Bonner.
In a statement, Mr Martin said: “Enda was steeped in his community and county. He was a distinguished and widely respected public representative who never stopped working and advocating for those he represented.
“He cared deeply for his community and was passionate about its improvement and development.
“In his many years of service, Enda contributed greatly to his community and county. His legacy is immense.
In addition to politics, Enda was also very involved in all aspects of his local community. All his life, he was deeply involved in the GAA and was an accomplished player for his club and county.
“Enda was a long-serving member of Fianna Fáil. On my own behalf and on behalf of the Fianna Fáil organisation, I offer my deepest sympathy to his wife Phylis, their children Elaine, Patrick and Elizabeth along with his wider family.”
Donegal Fianna Fáil said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague, Enda Bonner, a proud Dungloe native who dedicated many years of service to Fianna Fáil and to the people of Donegal.
“His commitment to his community and to public service was unwavering, and he will be remembered with great respect and affection by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and former colleagues at this very sad time.”
Aside from politics, Mr Bonner was also Club Vice-President, County Board Delegate, former Chairman and former player with CLG An Clochán Liath.
The club has suspended all activity as a mark of respect and their clubhouse and facilities remain closed at this time.
The Mary from Dungloe International Arts Festival shared: “Enda was a great friend and generous supporter of our festival over many years, always willing to help and contribute in any way he could. His kindness and generosity towards the festival will always be remembered.”
In a statement, Letterkenny Chamber of Commerce described Mr Bonner as “a highly respected businessman, public representative and well-known figure across Donegal.”
They said: “Bonner Gill & Co, our neighbours at Grand Central, are long-standing members of Letterkenny Chamber, and Enda made an important contribution to the business and professional community in Letterkenny over many years.”
Enda Bonner is sadly missed by his loving and devoted wife Phyllis, his children Elaine (Kevin), Elizabeth (Arpad) and Patrick (Valerie), his adored grandchildren Brooke, Mason, Conal and Elodie.
He is also missed by his sisters Pauline, Aideen (Martin RIP), Crona (Paddy), his nephews, nieces, cousins, extended family, friends and his colleagues and friends in the GAA community.
Mr Bonner is predeceased by his parents Dom and Ann Teresa Bonner.
Funeral arrangements for Mr Bonner have now been announced.
He is reposing at his home on Saturday, August 29 in Drumoghill, Manorcunnigham. House private to family only.
Removal to McGlynn’s Funeral Parlour, Dungloe (F94ND68) on Sunday with wake on Sunday from 4pm to 8pm and Monday from 3pm to 8pm with rosary at 8pm on both nights.
Requiem Mass in St Crona’s Church, Dungloe at 12pm on Tuesday, September 1 with burial in Dungloe Cemetery.