JOE Keappock passed away on New Year’s Eve in Dublin’s Mater Hospital. The thoroughbred breeder, fondly known as ‘Grandad’ to his friends, had been in failing health recently.

He lived in Dunsany, Co Meath, and was a prominent member of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association. He was chairman of the ITBA’s Meath-Louth/Westmeath region and was instrumental in setting up the ITBA events committee. Joe played a major role in the organisation of the ITBA’s annual National Breeding and Racing Awards night. In 2019, the ITBA made a presentation to him to acknowledge his contribution to the event.

He was also a former director of the Irish Horse Welfare Trust.

Joe is survived by his wife, Caitriona, and their four children.

Kerry Ryan of the ITBA said: “On behalf of our chairman, John McEnery, and all ITBA members, we send our sincere condolences to Caitriona and family. Joe was a trustee of the ITBA and an integral part of councils for a long time. He will be greatly missed.”

His funeral Mass is at 10.30am on Monday and cremation at 12.45pm. Both ceremonies can be viewed online. See rip.ie for details.