wicklowsummerfamilywalk.com

Frank Kelly

Written by Administrator | 03 July 2011

FRANK KELLY 1919-2011

On Sunday 26^th June 2011 I learned with deep sadness the death of Frank Kelly from Newtownmountkennedy. Frank has been associated with the Wicklow Summer Family Walk for nearly nine years. This year Frank was honoured for his commitment and dedication when he cut the ribbon to start the 10^th Wicklow Summer Family Walk. Eileen Whelan from RTE News presented Frank with a special 10 year medal on the 15^th May 2011.

Frank contacted me in 2002, he was then 83 and he wondered if he would be able to walk the six miles from the Leitrim Lounge to Killoughter Railway Station and back. As I was trying to confirm the correct answer to Frank, he informed me that he played golf every day. I had no decision to make and I told Frank that he would have no problem as the route was flat with no hills. Frank has walked every year up to 2009, what an achievement. More important Frank has raised more than €10,000 for the Irish Cancer Society obtaining sponsorship from more than 1,500 people.

I have had the pleasure of walking with Frank on a few occasions; Frank was a gentleman, totally committed. I remember on the walk in May 2008, the weather was terrible, a winters day, torrential rain, Frank refused to take a lift with the first aid vehicle because he had obtained sponsorship from his customers and he promised them that he would complete the walk because they had complete confidence in him.

On behalf of the Wicklow Summer Family Walk Team, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Frank’s family, relations and wide circle of friends.

Frank cuts the ribbon to the Wicklow Summer Family Walk 2011

11^th WICKLOW SUMMER FAMILY WALK 2012

16^th February 2012

The 11^th WICKLOW SUMMER FAMILY WALK will take place on Sunday 13^th May, starting at the Leitrim Lounge 3pm. All proceeds to the Irish Cancer Society. This year’s walk is dedicated to Frank Kelly RIP from Newtownmountkennedy and Francis Lawless RIP from Roundwood. Both Frank and Francis were involved in every walk and they raised thousands of euro in aid of Cancer Research. Last year Frank cut the tape to start the walk and Francis completed the 10K on his mobility scooter.

This is the first year that we don’t have a sponsor; given the economical climate that we live in sponsorship is very difficult. However I am appealing to any business or persons interested in sponsoring to give me a call.

The walk will start at the Leitrim Lounge, walk north to Killoughter Railway Station where refreshments will be served, then return back to the Leitrim Lounge where you can enjoy tea, coffee and sandwiches in the Leitrim Lounge and Certificate presentation.

To-date €183,000 has been raised from previous walks and challenges. Once again I would like to thank the people of Wicklow for their generous support. Remember every euro received will help to fight cancer.

Sponsorship Cards will be available from retail outlets in Wicklow, Rathnew, Glenealy and Ashford on the 15th March. People who have taken part in recent years will be forwarded a Sponsorship Card automatically, however should people require additional cards please contact Pat Lawless direct at 087 2540550 or 0404 67298 also email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Many Thanks,

PAT LAWLESS.

This year's Wicklow Summer Family Walk will be dedicated to the memory of Stella Kavanagh. Stella passed away suddenly on March 19th. Stella has been a massive contributer & fundraiser to the walk over the past 10 years, collecting many thousands of euros. Stella will be missed by us all. May She Rest In Peace.