There is shock and sadness at the passing of Oliver Galligan, Kilnavara, Cavan which has occurred after a short illness. Oliver had been at his usual best during the summer months attending football matches and meetings and his untimely passing is mourned by all who knew him.
Oliver made an outstanding contribution to his beloved GAA at club, county, provincial, and national level over many decades. He first came to prominence when he captained his native club Cavan Gaels to minor championship success in 1967. This was the beginning of a distinguished career and he went on to win Cavan senior championship medals in 1975, 1977 and 1978. In later years he served as club chairman.
His displays for Cavan Gaels earned him a place on the different county teams and he played at minor (captain), under 21 and senior for Cavan in the late 1960s and into the 1970s. He was a whole-hearted player who usually lined out in the half backline where his reading of the game and his great positional awareness were his strengths.
In 1995 he was elected as county development officer for Cavan Co Board and after a number of fruitful years in that role he was chosen as one of Cavan’s delegates to Ulster Council in 2001. He rose quickly through the ranks on the Provincial Council serving as PRO, treasurer, vice-President, and finally President from 2019-2022. During his time as an officer, Oliver was to the forefront of many successful initiatives in Ulster which had a positive effect on the wellbeing of the GAA in the province. His role in Ulster also meant that he served on a number of national committees in Croke Park most notably Coiste Bainistí the high powered management committee. His most recent role was when he was appointed by Uachtarán Jarlath Burns to sit on the Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC) a role he was currently fulfilling up to his sudden illness.
Oliver discharged his duties at all times with integrity and courtesy and with a great sense of humour and he made many friends and no enemies. His company was often sought after because no matter what the occasion Oliver’s hearty laugh and quick wit enlivened many meeting and social gatherings. He was passionate about his club, county and province and he defended them in the boardroom and in social discourse whenever the need arose.
Above all else Oliver was a great family man and Cavan Co Board extends its deepest sympathy to his wife Frances, his sons John and Oliver, daughter Elaine, grandchildren, brother Seán, sister Kathleen, and their extended families on their great loss.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
