The passing of John (Fitzy) Fitzgerald will leave a huge void in Ringmahon Rangers Football Club

A dark cloud hung over Ringmahon Park on Friday evening as one of their much loved clubmen John (Fitzy) Fitzgerald passed away after battling an illness for a few years.

The news of the passing of the former groundsman and all round multi-tasker was felt throughout not only his beloved, but it touched many hearts of most clubs throughout Cork city and county.

Fitzy was one of the first fellas that would greet you as you arrived in Ringmahon Park, always with a beaming smile, a smile which was there for the Ringmahon players whether they won, lost or drew a game. 

His passion for the game, the club and for having the grounds in pristine condition was always very evident to anyone who has past through the club.

Having made the move from College Corinthians to Ringmahon 15 years ago, Fitzy took on the role as groundsman and he was responsible for having the place in top shape for many years. 

In recent years when he became unwell he passed his role onto Tony O’Connell, however both were as thick as thieves and the great buddies were rarely seen apart. 

Fitzy took control of mainly looking after the gear and what a job he did. 

If there was so much as a sock short from a set, the manager would get a call and all would be sorted such was his perfection.

Tony, a lifelong friend spoke highly of Fitzy and admits he will be a huge loss around the club.

“John was a great man, so passionate about Ringmahon club,” said Tony.

“Everything he did, he did it with 100% commitment. 

"He was a character who knew that personality played a key role in relationships with other clubs. 

"He even took on the role to making sure a referee would get a cup of tea at half time, anything to butter them up," laughs Tony.

“Myself and John go back a long way when he played as a goalkeeper in his younger days with St Mary's and I was with a team called Hillington. "We had many a battle but became great friends afterwards and since we would go to nearly every Ringmahon game whether it be schoolboys/schoolgirls right up to seniors. 

"He will be sorely missed.” 

Under normal circumstances, with a man of Fitzy's stature, all games would be cancelled on the news of his passing, however the common response from everyone involved with the club was that Fitzy would have wanted the show to go on. 

After all, it was his job for so many years to make sure pitches were playable and the last thing he ever wanted was a game to be called off so games went ahead, while all paying their respects in a minute silence for the great man, loved by so many.

Club chairman Paul Higgins spoke about the impact John had in the club and how his passing will be a huge void.

“The news of John’s illness deteriorating became knowledge last Thursday and the quickness I suppose hit us like a ton a bricks,” said Higgins. "There were people who would have known John as personal friends Like Tony and Mervin who showed massive courage to visit John twice in his last few days. 

"William Delany also who showed huge desire to see John before his passing as he was always good to Fitzy through the last few years. 

"The passing will take weeks to settle in for everyone as we will miss the gentle smile and walking frame outside the door. 

"It's the small things that will take time to get over.

“The beautiful thing about this is John gave his all to the very end. Up until last week he was sorting gear. 

"The jobs John did may go unnoticed to a lot of people but we take some consolation in knowing we always made sure John knew of his worth to the club.

“At 65 and many more years to give the unfortunate passing will be felt by all. 

"To his wife, Ester, daughter Sinead, who was his world and grandkids Faye, Ryan and Leah, the world be a harder place for them, but the condolences near and far have been heartwarming. 

"Rest easy Fitzy, you were one of a kind from all in Ringmahon."

Fitzy attended last week's intermediate cup game against Usher and the club made a very emotional post after his passing.

“John had a vision to see one of his best buddies in football win trophies and his passion was there for all to see during last Saturday's game with Usher Celtic in the FAI Intermediate Cup.

"We could see Johnathon was not well, but no way did it stop him hugging every player leaving that pitch and then manager Aidan Foley at the end of a memorable win for the club. 

"John will be missed for his chats and his work ethic. 

"We hope you’re at ease now and continue to watch from above and we continue to do you proud as a football club. 

"Rest in Peace Johnny Fitz.”