Tributes have poured in for renowned Superquinn founder Feargal Quinn who passed away this morning.
The 82-year-old businessman died peacefully at his home in Howth, Co Dublin, following a short illness.
Mr Quinn, who was also a former senator, is survived by his wife Denise, their five children and 19 grandchildren.
In a short statement, the Quinn family said: “First and foremost Feargal was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, and brother.
“To everyone else who knew him, he was an ebullient businessman, entrepreneur, innovator and former Senator.”
Superquinn founder Feargal Quinn passes away aged 82
Among those paying tribute was fellow businessman and Dragon’s Den entrepreneur Gavin Duffy.
He posted on Twitter: “Just hearing the very sad news that Feargal Quinn (82) founder of Superquinn has died.
“To his son Eamon and his siblings and mother Denise my deepest condolences.
“The Quinn Family Feargal, and his cousins Ruari & Lochlainn have contributed so much to this country. RIP."
Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said the supermarket founder was a gentleman.
He said: “Very sad to learn of the death of Feargal Quinn.
“His achievements in business and in the Seanad were significant and are well known, but what set him apart was his personal warmth and great integrity. We have lost a true gentleman with his passing.”
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Independent politician Finian McGrath added: “Very saddened to hear of the death of Senator Feargal Quinn. It was my honour to have known and worked with him.
“Feargal was very much a family man and my thoughts are with his family today, RIP.”
Retail Excellence Group CEO, David Fitzsimons, expressed his sadness on the passing of the world-renowned retailer.
In a short statement, he said: “Today we have lost a giant of the world of retail, a treasure trove of knowledge and advice and an enthusiastic supporter of aspiring retail leaders and entrepreneurs.
“Feargal’s family can be justly proud of his achievements and his lasting legacy.
“I had the distinct privilege of knowing Feargal and, in 2007, presenting him with a well-deserved lifetime achievement award - just one of three presented in the history of our annual awards.
“My condolences and that of all of the team and members of Retail Excellence go out to Denise, their five children Eamonn, Stephen, Gillian, Donal and Zoe as well as Feargal’s 19 grandchildren and wide circle of friends at this sad time.”
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