Robbie Keane has paid tribute to his uncle-in-law and legendary Cork GAA commentator Paudie Palmer.
The 65-year-old passed away from injuries he sustained after a hit and run crash in Innishannon in West Cork on 29 December. Paudie was the uncle of Robbie’s wife Claudine. He was a Templenoe, Co Kerry native and he worked for C103FM and as a teacher in Bandon, Co Cork.
Robbie said he was "absolutely devastated" to hear of Paudie's death. The former Republic of Ireland footballer paid tribute online, writing: "Absolutely devastated. Paudie what a gentleman and legend of a broadcaster. You will be so missed."
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Tanaiste Micheal Martin and the Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Deirdre Forde were also among those who paid tribute. Speaking on Sunday at the Lough in Cork, the former Taoiseach said that Paudie had been part of the lives of all those who loved sport for “many, many years.”
“We kind of relished every word he said. He had the respect of all those involved in Gaelic games in particular and in the world of sport more generally because he had wonderful insights into the game. We will miss him greatly.
“He was such a distinctive voice, particularly through radio and in newsprint in the Echo. We all looked forward to reading them [his reports]. He always had the capacity to generate great debate around the sport and I think people in sport in general will mourn him. Our hearts go out to them (his family). It is an enormous loss to them. To the wider supporting community this is also a huge loss.“
Meanwhile, the Lord Mayor of Cork said the death of Paudie was “an enormous tragedy”. “He was much loved. He was a great colleague. He was so popular and kind and I am sure his loss will be deeply felt by his colleagues in C103FM and also by his wider circle and of course his family.”
Paudie’s boss from C103FM, CEO Kieran McGeary said that the commentator was “a great character and a gentleman”. He added it would be hard to imagine their commentaries without the distinctive voice of the great Paudie Palmer.
“I always enjoyed his company. He was extremely popular as a commentator, very very witty. He was a great commentator. On behalf of all the management and staff I want to extend our condolences to his wife Colette and his family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time.“
Paudie is survived by his wife Colette, his daughters Claire and Emily, his three brothers Denis, Richie and John, his grandson Lucas, his extended family and a wide circle of friends.
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