Funeral details announced for Laois man killed in workplace tragedy

A Laois husband and father of two killed in a workplace tragedy earlier this week will be laid to rest on Monday. 

Funeral details have been announced following the death of  John Maher,  formerly of Portlaoise, who lost his life while at work on Wednesday afternoon, July 2 in Rathdrum, Wicklow.

Mr Maher, formerly of Rathevan, Portlaoise, was living in Kilmoney North, Rathangan, County Kildare.  He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Tracey, sons Seán and Fionn, parents Pat and Mary, brother Liam, sisters Patricia and Eileen, parents in law Theo and Josie, brothers-in-law Tommy, David, John and Ciarán, sisters-in-law Dawn, Natasha, Lorraine and Laura, nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, extended family, neighbours, friends and work colleagues. Pre-deceased by his uncles James and Seán Maher.

Reposing at his family home (R51 W288) from 2pm on Sunday concluding with prayers at 6pm. Removal by Glennons Funeral Directors on Monday morning to arrive at The Church of Assumption and St. Patrick, Rathangan for Requiem Mass at 12 o'clock. Burial will take place afterwards in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Rathangan. House private on Sunday after conclusion of prayers and on Monday morning.

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The Health and Safety Authority has launched an investigation into the workplace fatality. 

Tributes have poured in on RIP.ie, with one mourner writing, "Deepest sympathy to Tracey, Seán, Fionn & all the Maher & Power families on John's tragic death, taken way too young. John was a devoted family man, always cheerful and never had a bad word to say about anyone. I will miss his company & chat on the club spins. Rest in peace John".

"Dear Tracey, your little sons, and the extended family and friends, we are so sorry for your immense loss. John was a lovely man, thinking of you all at this àwful time, may John rest in peace," another person said.

"My sincere condolences to Tracey sons Sean & Fionn and to all of John’s family. I’m so shocked and saddened to hear of John's passing in such tragic circumstances. I knew John as a member of Kildare Cycling Club and always enjoyed his company on the club spin’s. John was such a gentleman and a great cyclist. Thinking of John’s family at this very sad time. May he rest in peace," another tribute said.