By 
EDENDORK St Malachy’s GAC have paid tribute to one of the club’s most ardent supporters following his death.
Local businessman Martin Currie, who was founder and director of Currie Crane Hire, was a deeply respected figure in his local community and beyond, and his generosity and engaging personality left an indelible impression on all who knew him.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Edendork St Malachy’s described Martin as “running his business with the same determination and fortitude with which he fought his illness.”
A familiar presence at local matches even in ill health, Martin was a devoted family man who was also fully involved in all aspects of community life.
Community
Paying tribute, a spokesperson for Edendork GAC said: “Our club and the entire Edendork community and beyond are deeply saddened at the passing of Martin, someone who we all held in extremely high regard.
“When the term ‘character’ was coined, it must surely have been with people like him in mind.
“He had a sense of humour like no other. Many have a knack of entering a room and lighting it up, but Rusty could have it bouncing in seconds.
“Behind it all however he was as caring and considerate a person as it is possible to meet. His love for Roisin as well as James and Hannah was clear and evident for all the world to see.”
The statement continued: “An avid supporter, he was always in attendance and was present at our most recent Senior matches despite his ailing health.
“He loved Edendork to his core and he was extremely proud to be able to support our Senior and reserve teams with Jerseys that they have worn on many occasions.
Adorned
“His jerseys adorned the logo of his business, ‘Currie Crane Hire’. He built this business for his family from the ground up. Ably assisted by Roisin and later James, he became renowned as a leader and expert in the Crane Hire sector across the North of Ireland.
“He ran his business with the same determination and fortitude with which he fought his illness.
“At no time over the last 18 months like the rest of his life did he ever think he was beaten. Even in recent weeks he backed himself and was confident that he could overcome this challenge.
“Unfortunately for Rusty and his family and plenty more, this wasn’t to be.
“We will all miss his friendship and above all having the craic with him.”