I have just learned with great sadness of the passing of Frank Meehan. Frank died in Tullamore Hospital yesterday afternoon.
I first met Frank Meehan in his home in Portlaoise in Aug 2002 when I was researching my Laois connections.
Over the years, even though my visits were infrequent, Frank always welcomed me with great hospitality and courtesy. He was a man you would listen to, and his knowledge of Irish history was extensive. He had a great love of Ireland and our ways. This was well expressed in his development of The Irish Kilt Club, of which he was the founder.
A distant relative of Frank, The Rev C. P. Meehan MRIA. wrote the following book, which has an interesting chapter on Kilconnell Abbey.
“The Rise and Fall of The Irish Franciscan monasteries and memoirs the Irish Hierarchy in the 17 Th. Century” -- The Rev C. P. Meehan MRIA.

On my recent visit to Frank, although unwell at this stage, he showed me around his extensive library. A collection of books, manuscripts, paper cuttings and photographs. A collection which I earnestly hope will be professionally archived and maintained for those interested “both sides of history” as he would say.
On that occasion Frank signed an presented to me one of two copies of ‘The original and history of the Ó Brien Clan’. His second copy was signed by the Ó Brien.

The date was 18th June 2012.

May he rest in Peace.

Joe Kelly.

It is indeed very sad to lose a good friend and this man was obviously very special.
It is good you had spent time with him and so you will have fond memories which should eclipse the sadness.
I will say a prayer for him. R.I.P.