Profound sense of loss at the passing of a Tipperary man who was a legend in his community

The passing took place recently of one of Cahir Cahir Parks legends. A man who was a friend to all that came in contact with him and affectionately known to all as ‘Hey Man’ or ‘the Hawk’.

Ger Hawkins was born into an old Cahir family and came from Kilcommon, where his father worked for the Cahir Estates. He is survived by his brother Tom in Australia and his sister Emily who lives in Cork. Ger was in his 85 year when he passed peacefully on July 10, 2025 following a short illness.

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His love for all sports knew no bounds he was an old stalwart at Cahir Park A.F.C. And was super fit all his life from cycling all over the country and one could meet him on the road returning from Dublin or Cork, cycling in all weathers.

Ger worked in Cahir Mills until the closure in the early 60's. Like everyone of his ilk he took the boat to England and remained there for 14 years. On his return he worked for the ESB and took his place with Cahir Park AFC where he was a lifelong member of the club.

Apart from playing with the Park he took it upon himself to teach hundreds of children football in the Park and Woodview estate as well as Mountain View Drive. He organized the myriads of young ones into soccer leagues and kept at it for more years than anyone else.

He did all this at his own expense, buying medals and cups for the victors. All the young ones looked to him as if he were a God. There are hundreds of sportsmen and women that have Ger to thank for their start in life; he never turned any child away, as he believed that everyone should get the same chance.

Ger never wavered in his support for Crystal Palace, his beloved team. He was the consummate all round Sportsman. He always had a bet on the horses and could tell you the results of some obscure games around the world. He was instantly recognized in his colourful attire and his long hair and beard and of course the bike.

Ger was not a wealthy man, but when it came to fundraising he was at the fore. When the need came to place lifesaving Defibrillators around the town, Ger sponsored one to the tune of €2,000, instead of getting a new bike. Such was his generosity that he always put others first.

Everybody thought that he wore a baseball cap; in fact it was a cap that was presented to him for completing a Maracycle of which he was very proud.

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Very few people can leave a much loved legacy like Gerard. F. Hawkins and his likes will never pass this way again. I am sure that when I say that it was an honour to have known him, that everyone will echo the thought. May he rest in peace
Thank you to Seanie Lonergan for the wonderful tribute to the late Ger Hawkins who was lifelong friend.