Date: 26-09-2002-

An irreplaceable part of Galway passes away

JOSEPH GAYNOR, renowned in Galway for the 30 years he spent busking in William Street, died after a short illness last month at the age of 78.

Gaynor, who was born in Wicklow in 1921, spent his early years in Dublin where he attended St Joseph's School for the Blind in Cabra. When he finished school he was given a present of an accordion by his brother in law, and embarked on a life-long love of music.

As his repertoire expanded, Joe played at major county shows and GAA matches throughout Ireland. His love of music brought him to spend many years busking on O'Connell Bridge in Dublin, until he moved to Galway in the 1960s to live with his sister and family in Henry St.

Gaynor began playing on O’Brien’s Bridge in Galway before moving to a spot outside Corbett’s hardware shop in Williamsgate St. When the premises was destroyed by fire in the early 1970s he moved to Glynn’s toy shop in William St and played there almost daily for some 30 years. During his early years in Galway he spent the summer months playing outside the Banba Hotel in Salthill.

Thousands of Galwegians will remember Joe for the accordion music which drifted through William St as they made their way from work and school. He was known for his good humour, and his ability to play any tune on request whether country, classical, or traditional.

Joe retired from busking just two years ago, and he moved to Dundalk to live with his younger sister. He passed away peacefully on August 28, surrounded by his family.

Joe's extended family in Galway wish to thank everyone who was kind and generous to him during his many years in Galway, particularly Mary Bennett and the staff of The Treasure Chest who took great care of him; and the owners of Lazlo Jewellers, Hartmann Jewellers, and all the business people of William St and Shop St who provided Joe with a drop of 'the craythur' in his cup of tea during the cold weather. Thanks are also due to Galway Taxis, who collected him at the end of every day.

Thousands of visitors to Galway got to know Joe and his music over the years. His love and appreciation of music was evident to all those who listened to him play. He loved classical music, particularly Mozart, and had a great love for the Vienna Boys' Choir and Count John McCormack.

Joe loved Galway, and in his final days he spoke fondly of his happy days playing on the street here. His many friends and family will always hear his music when they pass The Treasure Chest. May he rest in peace.