PJ Denning, one of a kind
Obituary
It is with great sadness that we say farewell to a beloved friend, PJ Denning, who passed away peacefully at his home, in the presence of his family on Friday, December 13, aged 67.
Son of the late Philip and Kathleen Denning, PJ was born and reared in Drung. As Co-owner of The Stray Sod Bar & Restaurant, Denning’s Food Store & Post Office and retired owner of Denning’s Frozen Foods, PJ was popular, much loved and respected by all who knew him.
Hard work and dedication were the foundation of everything for PJ, along with his love for family, friends, music, cars and travel.
Finishing school with the 1975 Class of St. Patrick’s College, Cavan and learning the business from his father, PJ worked for Campbell Foods in Rockcorry where he was known as one who wasted little time, being punctual and organised. He built a reputable customer base over the years, and while co-building The Stray Sod with his brother Eamon, he took over the reins of his own Frozen Food business. PJ was widely known as a meticulous and hard worker, who took pride in his business and cared for his customers, paying close attention to their needs, often going above and beyond to assist them.
In his early days, PJ liked to travel, visiting Hong Kong, Spain, Australia and America. He particularly loved America and dreamed of returning once he retired and his work was done.
Known both far and wide for his passion for fast cars, PJ was a longstanding and dedicated Club Member of Co Cavan Motor Club and Monaghan Motor Club where he is fondly known as a legend. He was a popular feature on the Stage’s Rally’s during the '80s and '90s, with many of his cars built from scratch from his fully equipped garage, with his favourite music playing in the background.
Music was PJ’s greatest love. He self-taught and mastered the guitar at a young age and amassed quite a selection of acoustic guitars over the years which were his pride and joy and liked to wind down in the evenings, strumming to his favourite tunes. He also loved photography and cherished original photos of family, friends, and places visited.
PJ will be remembered for his lovable character, humour and wit, a true gentleman, who loved his family dearly and was loyal to his many friends. Satisfied with the simple things in life, PJ communicated with his mobile phone rather than connect through social media or advanced technology, and always had time to stop for a chat.
PJ's funeral service was a celebration of life filled with an abundance of love, affection and respect from all present and from those who connected from afar. He has truly touched a chord in the hearts of all who knew him and will be sadly missed.