Tributes have been pouring in following the sad passing one of Lurgan’s most popular publicans.
Patrick McCann, who ran the The Cellar Bar in the Co. Armagh town for many years since 1980, passed away peacefully at Craigavon Area Hospital on Saturday morning.
The Cellar Bar’s social media lead tributes to the man behind the success of the bar for several decades.
“It is with great sadness that the McCann family of the the Cellar Bar Lurgan announce the death of their beloved father Paddy,” they posted.
“He will be sadly missed by his wife Anne, children Jim, Paula, Mairead, Lesa, Gregory and Trevor, grandchildren and great grandchildren, sons and daughters in law and family circle.”
His daughter Lesa – who is now proprietor – said: “My dad’s life was dedicated to his family and business and all the wonderful friends and customers whom he cherished dearly until the end of his days.
“He will be greatly missed by all. I know he always loved the chat laughter and friendship you all showed him throughout his life.
“This is a great comfort to us all as we come to terms that our dad is no longer with us. Thank you for your kind and sincere wishes and support.”
Hundreds of tributes were paid under the post – a testament to the legacy Mr McCann left behind.
Those included former employees of the bar, one of whom wrote: “He was a great man, always had plenty of craic at the bar. It was an honour to work for him.”
One woman commented: “Paddy was a true gentleman, who loved the banter with staff and customers alike. He will be sorely missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
Another described Mr McCann as “a character and a lovely man”.
The McCann family purchased the bar in 1979 – the third family to own the premises since since 1845.
The property was rebuilt and the McCanns opened the doors in December 1980, and have been trading ever since, winning many, many awards in the process.
Patrick was the dearly beloved husband of Anne and much loved father of James (Jim), Paula, Mairead, Lesa, Gregory and Trevor; the beloved father-in-law of Timothy, David, Corina and Roisin, and loving grandfather to Matthew, Brendan, Connor, Bridget, Kevin, Victoria, James, Conán, Cáelainn, Oliver, Tabitha and Pippa and great grandfather to Dylan and Emma.
Due to Current Circumstances House and Funeral Strictly Private for family Only.
Very deeply regretted by his loving wife, sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren and family circle.
No flowers please. donations in lieu if desired to St Vincent de Paul Society Lurgan c/o Jack McLearnon & Son Funeral Directors 75 North Street Lurgan BT67 9AH.
