Tributes paid to Simmental 'pioneer' John Connaughton
Tributes are being paid to well-known Simmental cattle breeder and hotelier John Connaughton who has passed away.
John (Johnny) Connaughton, of Barrettstown House, Dysart, Co. Westmeath passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday (January 14).
John, who was in his 94th year, was among the first people to import the Simmental cattle breed into Ireland over 60 years ago and founded the famous Ballybane herd.
He also owned the Bloomfield House Hotel in Mullingar with his family.
Simmental
The Irish Simmental Cattle Society extended its condolences to the Connaughton Family on the passing of John.
In a post on social media, the society wrote: "John was a true gentleman, a pioneer in Simmental cattle breeding, a past president of the Irish Simmental Cattle Society and a good friend to many. May John rest in peace."
Willie O’Halloran, president of the Irish Simmental Cattle Society, told Agriland that John was "instrumental" in introducing and establishing the breed in Ireland.
"He was a stalwart down through the years with his Ballybane herd and was one of the founding members [of the society]," he said.
John hosted the 50th anniversary of the society in his hotel in December 2022.
The Irish Simmental Cattle Society president also paid tribute to "another great breeder" of Simmentals, Albert Bagnall, who passed away on December 24.
Albert, who was inducted into the Simmental Hall of Fame 2012, established the Ballingar Simmental herd with his wife Irene in Ballycommon, Tullamore, Co. Offaly in 1981.
Hotelier
In a statement on social media Bloomfield House Hotel, said: "It is with deep sadness that we share the news of John Connaughton’s passing, proprietor of Bloomfield House Hotel, Leisure Club and Spa, and beloved father of our colleagues Liz (director) and Julie.
"John was a true gentleman. He was an inspiration to so many of us and will be fondly remembered by all our team.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to all the Connaughton family during this difficult time.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn the loss of a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. May John rest in peace."
John will repose at his home this evening from 3:00p.m to 7:00p.m, with the house private thereafter.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 1:00p.m, in the Cathedral of Christ the King, Mullingar before a private burial.
John is survived by his wife Teresa, children Julie, Laura, Darragh and Elizabeth and grandchildren.
