John (Johnny) O’Shea, Ardclone, Piltown, Co Kilkenny, went to his eternal rest on 8 October last. He will be remembered as the innovative farmer behind O’Shea Farms and the founder of Iverk Produce. He transformed O’Shea Farms over the past 45 years from being a mixed-enterprise family farm of about 100ac to a large horticultural food production and distribution business. O’Shea Farms and Iverk Produce currently employ more than 200 people with a further 250+ people employed by local growers.

Johnny was an inspirational leader and possessed the unique talent to bring people with him. He made a very significant contribution to the development of the potato and vegetable sectors nationally, having contributed to stakeholder and industry fora. He was passionate about potatoes, about producing high yields of quality product and about increasing potato consumption.

He was a visionary, a great entrepreneur and a generous benefactor. But above all, he was a selfless contributor endeavouring to improve the lot of those he came in contact with. He spearheaded a self-help potato project in Ethiopia, in conjunction with Vita, to which he brought Irish experts and technology to help improve potato production there.

Johnny was a great community man in his native Piltown. He was involved in endeavours such as the Enterprise Centre, sports clubs (especially GAA), the Iverk Show and the Tidy Towns. Piltown itself is testament to his active presence.

He was a positive thinker and the architect of many a good laugh. He had time and consideration for everybody. He was a true Christian who shared what he had and reached out to those in need. He will be sadly missed by his close family, sister and four brothers and all 24 nieces and nephews.

Our sympathies go to Johnny’s family, friends and work colleagues. But in his own words: “In the name of God let us drive on.”

Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam uasal.