'Deep and quiet sadness' in Carlow following sudden death of popular businessman

There is a "deep and quiet sadness" in Carlow following the sudden death of popular businessman Willie Rath last week. 

Willie passed away surrounded by his family on Wednesday, December 10.

In a post on the Facebook group 'All About Carlow,' Willie ahs been described as "part of people's routines." 

"There is a deep and quiet sadness across Carlow following the passing of Willie Rath, a man many people knew not through headlines but through everyday life," the post said.

Willie was the owner of Rath's Londis in Carlow and Castledermot and also the Teach Dolman.

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"The early stop for a paper. A quick chat at the counter. A familiar face that had been there for years. That kind of presence matters more than we often admit," the post reads. 

Willie is survived by his wife Bridget, children James, David, and Ann-Marie, and his grandchildren Abbie, Julian, Emma, and Will. 

"It would be easy to lean into praise at times like this, but what stands out most is something simpler. Willie was consistent. He showed up. He built something that lasted, not just in business terms, but in trust and familiarity," the Facebook post said. 

"From all of us in the Carlow Community and All About Carlow, our thoughts are with the Rath family at this difficult time," it continued. 

Willie's funeral will take place in The Holy Family Church, Askea tomorrow at 11am.