A MAN who spent decades in the building trade in Huddersfield has died.
But the funeral of John Conneely, 80, this week is not likely to be a dour, mournful affair.
Mourners are being urged to wear bright clothing and, as his son, Patrick, said, "have a bit of a hooley".
Mr Conneely senior died in Newsome Nursing Home, but for many years lived in Shearing Cross Gardens, Fartown.
He was born in Galway, Ireland, and he and his wife, Monica, arrived in Britain more than 40 years ago and set up home in Bristol.
Mrs Conneely had two sisters in Huddersfield and the couple soon moved to the town, where Mr Conneely began work as a building worker.
He worked for many of the town's well- known building firms, including Wimpenny's and O'Donnell's.
He was involved in large building schemes, including the construction of Colne Valley High School at Linthwaite, where he was a site foreman.
Away from work he was a keen sports fan, especially of football and bowling.
He was also a member of St Patrick's Catholic Social Club.
Mrs Conneely died four years ago. Mr Conneely leaves five sons, two daughters and a number of grandchildren.
The funeral service is at St Patrick's Church at 9.30am on Thursday, followed by interment at Lockwood Cemetery.
