OBITUARY: Kevin Patrick Toohey

Kevin Patrick Toohey of Victoria Road, Woy Woy, passed away suddenly at his home on Saturday, April 29, aged 69.

Kevin was born at Casino and was the third child and eldest son in a family of 10 children. He was a committed family man devoted to his wife, three children, daughter-in-law and four grandchildren.

He was always an active member of the Catholic Church and an energetic associate of various St Vincent de Paul groups.

Kevin was a renowned walker and many on his route will remember him for his open and friendly manner.

As a member of the Woy Woy Bowling Club, Kevin and his wife were instrumental in the running of the "Kneelers and Grippers" charity day conducted at the local bowling club each year.

The proceeds are divided between the St Vincent de Paul Society's St Judes hostel for homeless men and various charities of the Masonic Lodge,

Kevin Toohey retired as a senior sergeant of the NSW police service in 1988 having served in excess of 31 years.

During his country service, he was attached to Aberdeen, Muswellbrook and Denman before returning to Sydney where he served in the Bankstown area prior to his retirement.

He and Patricia remained in Sydney until taking up residence at Woy Woy four and a half years ago.

On Wednesday, May 3, a large number of people overflowed the Woy Woy Catholic Church to farewell Kevin.

The eulogy by long-time friend Brian Bible was moving and memorable.

The guard of honour formed by local uniform officers was impressive, and was an acknowledgement of the many years service Kevin gave to policing the various communities which he served.

Kevin is survived by his loving wife, of 46 years, Patricia, son Michael, who is a police inspector at Tumut, and daughters Colleen and Lynette both of Sydney.