Mayo football is in mourning after the death this morning of Frank Mortimer - the father of legendary players Kenneth, Trevor and Conor.
Conor revealed that his dad had passed away from Covid-19 in a heartbreaking message on social media.
He wrote this evening: "Dad. I was glad to be with you in your last moments. I know you felt it. As you slipped away I just felt this unbelievable sorrow as you should have been safe in hospital.
"You should have been protected from Covid in there. We love you and will never forget you."
Frank set up Mortimer Quarries in the early 1960s, and the Tuam-based company has grown into one of leading quarrying companies in Ireland.
His sons have all been involved in the family business, alongside their exploits on the GAA pitch.
Mortimer Quarries wrote on Facebook today: "Frank Mortimer 1949 - 2021. This morning we said goodbye to Frank, beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend to many.
"One of nature's absolute gentlemen. May he Rest in Peace."
Frank played Gaelic games himself for his parish team in his younger days before his sons made the family name synonymous with Mayo football.
Eldest son Kenneth won All-Star Awards in 1996 and 1997, Trevor captained his county, while youngest Conor won an All-Star himself in 2006 and is the second all-time leading Championship scorer for Mayo.
Trevor said in 2016: “My dad and my mum are very proud to have had three sons playing for Mayo. It’s a huge honour. There was a Mortimer on the Mayo team for nearly 20 years, which is a big stretch.
"He loved it, I know he did, and it must have been great for my dad to go to every league and championship match for that time watching his sons.”
