It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the death of our club mate and friend, Noel Madden. Noel was a true gentleman, a family man above all and a great Ballyboden, Westmeath and GAA man, and his loss will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Noel managed the ’95 boys football team from U9 all the way through to U21, winning an All-Ireland division one féile in Newbridge in 2009. His managerial style reflected his personality – a perfect gentleman, but with a steely determination to do things right that was never far from the surface. Noel’s lack of ego allowed him to bring additional coaches on board, all of whom contributed to the development of a group of young men who were very lucky to have Noel Madden as their manager. Noel was a sociable man who took a great personal interest in all the players, and took pleasure in their successes in school and in life as well as on the field of play.
Noel also managed the development of the club gym along with Brian O’Regan, and again his attention to detail, huge good nature and determination ensured that the top-class facility that we have today was delivered. The gym stands today as a testament to Noel.
As a family man, Noel took great pride and pleasure in James’ hurling career with both Ballyboden and Dublin, and he was often seen with Helen and Áine at his side, in Páirc Uí Mhurchú, Parnell Park and further afield cheering for Boden or the Dubs. As club mates and friends, we could only look on with admiration at the support that his family gave him for the past five years since illness hit him, and we pray that this time that they spent together will be a comfort to Helen, Áine and James in the difficult days ahead.
Those of us who were privileged to know him can truly say that Noel Madden was one of the best in every way, and we pray that he is now enjoying his well-earned reward – suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal.
https://rip.ie/death-notice/noel-madden-knocklyon-dublin/462664
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WDaR-HmOJHs – Link for Funeral Mass
