Tributes have been paid to Clement McGann who played a key role in the Maritime Institute and National Maritime Museum.
McGann, from Cabinteely, Dublin, worked for many years in systems with Irish Life.
He used his skills to create a database and website at the National Maritime Museum in Dun Laoghaire.
In 2012, when his database was superseded, he created a new website with links to articles and publications on Irish maritime history, www.lugnad.ie.
As Joe Ryan recalls, when the R116 rescue helicopter crashed in 2017 with the loss of four air crew, he dedicated the front page for a month.
“He did the same when Des Branigan died in 2016,” Ryan recalls. Branigan, a celebrated seaman, trade unionist, and scuba diver who played a key role at sea in ensuring neutral Ireland received supplies during the Second World War, was a founding member of the Maritime Institute of Ireland.
“Clement did great work to preserve our maritime heritage and will be sadly missed,” Ryan says.
Peadar Ward of the Maritime Institute and National Maritime Museum said on rip.e that “his knowledge of maritime history was second to none”.
Paying tribute on behalf of the Stella Maris Seafarers’ Centre, Rose Kearney said that “Clement was a regular visitor to our centre for lectures and other occasions - always welcomed by our members and a lovely engaging person with visiting seafarers from all over the world”.
Many of his colleagues in Irish Life also paid warm tributes.
Clement McGann is survived by his wife Pauline and children John-Paul, Marie-Claire, David and Sarah.
His funeral took place earlier this week in Dublin.
