John Cussen - A Tribute
Tribute to John Cussen
John Cussen went to his eternal reward on Friday 10th February, just weeks before the 65th anniversary of the founding of Old Abbey AC, of which he was one of the key founding members. The club was founded on 29th February 1952.
At the time of his death, John was President of Old Abbey AC. He was the club's first Chairman and, during his 65 years with Old Abbey, had always filled an admin position with the club - never being without a role.
John's athletic prowess was primarily in the High Jump, a tradition and passion he passed down to his grandchildren. After retiring from active participation in athletics, John devoted his energies to providing "unbelieveable support for athletes". He was described, by Old Abbey coach John Cronin, as "always looking out for Old Abbey", and being "always focussed on the athletes". He was a "gentle giant" and the "main 'go-to' man". John described him as "mad about local sports".
Jimmy Murray, Rising Sun AC, and a former member of Old Abbey AC, reiterated John Cronin's sentiments, saying that he was a "great man for the parish, being involved in fundraising for many parish and charity activities. In addition to athletics, he also had a passion for Road Bowling.
Ar dheis de go raibh a anam.
Funeral Arrangements
(From RIP.ie)
Cussen (Waterfall, Cork): On February 10th 2017, unexpectedly at home, JOHN (President of Old Abbey, A.C.)beloved husband of the late Joan and loving father of Anne, Eddie, Michael, John, Pat, Mary, Paula, Josephine, Breda, Martin, Gretta, Brendan and Kathleen. Sadly missed by his loving family, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, sisters-in-law Sheila and Pat, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.
Lying in repose at the Wilton Funeral Home, Sarsfield Road of Jerh. O’Connor Ltd. from Monday, Removal at 7pm (same day) to the Church of the Most Holy Heart of Mary, Goggin’s Hill. Requiem Mass at 11am on Tuesday. Funeral afterwards to adjoining cemetery.