Tributes are pouring in following the sad passing of popular Letterkenny bus driver Eugene ‘Tootsie’ Hegarty.
A gentleman and a great character, Tootsie was the Transport Manager of Mc Gettigan Travel and an integral part of the company.
News of his passing yesterday (Thurs) prompted widespread shock and sadness in the Letterkenny area and far beyond.
Many have recalled how school journeys, sports trips and countless other excursions were made more enjoyable with Tootsie behind the wheel. Those who knew him are fondly remembering his patient, caring and good-natured ways.
The team at McGettigan Travel shared this warm tribute to their dear colleague and friend:
“Anyone who knew him, would know that you could not put in to words to describe how loved he was.. he wasn’t just an employee, he was a huge part of our family and the heart and soul of our company.. whether he was giving orders as our transport manager/ driving the children to and from schools/ loving the craic driving the hens/stags around and making sure the office staff had there sausage sandwiches in the morning.”
The tribute also celebrates the special friendship shared between Tootsie and company owner Cathal McGettigan, which goes back decades.
“We will forever miss the craic we had with Tootsie and we’re so glad we have so many memories to cherish.. And I can honestly say, Mc Gettigan Travel will never be the same again..
“We want to express our deepest sympathy to the Hegarty family at this time.. He will be sadly missed and I can say there is a very dark cloud over Letterkenny today.”
Funeral details to be confirmed.
