Togher Historical Association recently made contact with the son of Teacher Ger Duggan , Cathal , who kindly supplied a biography and fantastic photographs celebrating his life and legacy throughout his more than 40 years as a Teacher at Togher Boys National School.
Ger Duggan 1972
Gearóid Duggan , affectionately known as Ger to all in Togher Boys
NS , was born in February 1955 to Daniel and Mary Duggan in Carraig na
bhFear , Co. Cork. He was the second youngest of nine siblings. Ger
received his education at Farranferris Secondary School , where his love
for hurling and passion for education were first ignited. Following his
secondary education , Ger pursued primary school teaching at St.
Patrick’s , Drumcondra. Upon graduating , he began his teaching career at
Togher Boys N.S. in September 1975 , where he dedicated over 40 years of his life. Togher
Boys N.S. held a special place in Ger's heart. He immersed himself in
every aspect of the school community , a community rich with pride that
he cherished deeply. The friendships forged with pupils, staff, parents,
and management had a profound impact on Ger's life and extended to his
family, continuing to this day.
Marie & Ger Wedding Day 1975
Church of the Way of the Cross
Togher
Church of the Way of the Cross
Togher
Outside of
school, Ger was deeply passionate about sports, particularly GAA. He won
numerous underage medals with Sarsfields , along with Harty and
All-Ireland titles with Farranferris. He also took immense pride in
wearing the red and green of Carraig na bhFear playing with his
childhood friends. After retiring from playing , Ger remained actively
involved by supporting the juvenile and senior club in Sarsfields ,
serving as Treasurer , Secretary , and Child Welfare Officer. In addition
to managing numerous juvenile teams at Sarsfields , Ger was also involved
in organising Sciath na Scol games for primary school students. He took
great pride in managing various Togher BNS Sciath na Scol teams.
Family
was central to Ger's life. A visit to the Arcadia Ballroom in 1972 ,
followed by Kades County in Glenville , marked a significant milestone
when he met his wife , Marie. Their love blossomed , and they were married
in July 1977 at The Way of the Cross Church, Togher. They soon started a
family , welcoming their first child, Niamh , in March 1980 , followed by
Rory , Cormac , and Cathal.
Marie & Ger with Grandchildren
Ger embraced life
fully , living each day to its fullest alongside his family , friends , and
colleagues. Having touched many lives , Ger sadly passed away on
September 7, 2018. His memory and legacy will be cherished and
remembered always.
Retirement Day 2018
