It is with great sadness that we announce the passing on of John McArdle.

John McArdle 3rd May 1935 - 13th June 2009

John, an Ulsterman, served The Irish Association for many years in the capacity of President, Secretary and Committee member. His IT skills played an important part in the initial setting up of the IAOT webpage .Also a fine tin whistler, John played at many sessions over the years and was a regular at Cygnet Folk Festival where he played many a tune with local and visiting musicians.

 His musical skills also encom­passed the clarinet, and he was a longtime performer with the Huon Valley Concert Orchestra. Typically, he was an enthusiastic recruiting agent. Besides his love of music John was a keen golfer. He gave many years of service to the Huon Golf Club where he served as President, Sec­retary and Captain.

John was a great giver to the com­munity in general, and for some time was involved with Huon Eldercare at Franklin, helping or­ganise entertainment for the Women's Auxillary Helpers at Christmas. He also devoted time to the Online Access Centre in Huonville, assist­ing those less computer literate to explore the wonders of the Inter­net.

The service of Roman Catholic Funeral Mass was held at St. James' Cygnet on Friday, 19th June, and was conducted by Fr. Mark Newman. Music before, during, and after the service was provided by Brian Owens, Roy and Dot Newman, Owen Moore and Richard Arnold. Hymns were led by Eric Fernandez to the organ playing of Claire Bond with flute and whistle accompani­ment by Brian Owens. The hearse departed to the plain­tive strains of The Eagle's Whistle. The wake took place at the Huon Golf Club where, amongst many, a short speech of appreciation was delivered by Brian Owens, on be­half of the IAOT, and President Michael Lynch.

The IAOT extends its sincerest sympathy and condolences to John's wife Bev, and all his family.