Laois man Dick Sides who championed Portlaoise hospital and many other causes passes away

The sad passing has taken place of Dick Sides - a Laois man who championed, fought and worked for his community over many years in particular for services at Portlaoise hospital.

The proud resident of the town's Ridge Road, Dick, (Richard), passed away peacefully and perhaps appropriately in the care of staff at the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise surrounded by his loving family. He was in his 93rd year on the day of his passing, January 19.

Predeceased by his darling wife Kitty, Dick is sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his daughter Ann, son in law Noel. adored granddaughters Aoife and Aine, their partners Damien and William, relatives, cherished neighbours on the Ridge Rd., and a large circle of friends from near and far. He is also missed by former colleagues in the ESB.

He will also be missed by many in Laois and Portlaoise for whom he worked selflessly over decades in many different ways. From the town's hospital, GAA club, credit union and other groups he played an invaluable part in the building of the community. 

He's also be remembered by the Friends of Portlaoise Hospital and his colleagues on the Portlaoise Hospital Action Committee with home he soldiered for many years in the various and difficult struggles to retain services at Portlaoise hospital against the tide of perceived health management wisdom.

Dick with staff at Portlaoise hospital presenting equipment funded by the Friends of Portlaoise Hospital.

Despite his advancing years, Dick has been to the fore in the past decade as the hospital came under renewed attack where a plan was hatched by the HSE for a major downgrade. But in all of this Dick was unflinching in his determination to retain services alongside the late Kathleen O'Brien, Tommy Timmons and in recent years people like John Hanniffy.

The presence and sight of Dick on a platform was often enough to show the people of Laois and Portlaoise that another fight would be needed but that the battle faced could also be won.

His work with the Friends of Portlaoise Hospital can be no less underestimated. His fundraising over many years delivered vital new equipment of all types to help staff care for the thousands of patients who are treated on the Dublin Road every year.

Dick was present at the hospital in late 2022 when Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly arrived for a visit. He was among the campaigners who  heard the Minister give a ringing endorsement of the hospital and all but ruled out downgrade.

Dick with the Portlaoise Hospital Action Committee in 2017 during the most recent fight for the facility.

"We are in the business of investing in this hospital, of growing services," said the minister.

His resilience was also evident in the fight for Gaelic Games in the town. Dick was a huge fan of and worker for Portlaoise GAA club long before the success of recent years. He played a big part in the club's revival in the 1960s. He served as President, treasurer and has filled other important roles over the years. 

He was present in County Hall in late 2022 when Laois County Council bestowed a Civic Reception on Portlaoise GAA star and AFL Grand Final winner Zach Tuohy.

Dick savours a Portlaoise GAA county final win with Paul Cahalane in O'Moore Park.

Dick also served on the board of Portlaoise Credit Union in the vital formative years during which the foundations were laid for a financial institution would grow into the People First Credit Union which today has upwards of 40,000 members in Laois and Kildare.

He was also a much liked Drum Major with the St Joseph's Accordion Band in Portlaoise over number of years. His dextrous handling of the staff was a great source of entertainment especially for children. He helped impart marching skills to the Presentation Convent marching band - a story told by Ann Marie Kelly in a film she made about the town in recent years. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Dick Sides with Aoife Reams and Eimear O'Sullivan who were at the Portlaosie Credit Union AGM in the Heritage Hotel. Photo-Jim Yorke.

Dick worked for Odlums Mills in Portlaoise before moving to the ESB where he was active in the trade union.

Dick's remains repose at his family home on Friday, January 20 from 3 pm with rosary at 8 pm. Removal on Saturday to arrive at SS Peter and Paul's Church for 12 noon requiem mass. Interment will follow in SS Peter and Paul's Cemetery Portlaoise.

The funeral mass can be viewed at www.portlaoiseparish.ie/webcam/