Tributes to the Mayo man who ‘saved Glasgow Celtic’
The late John Keane.
A Mayo man who was credited as being the saviour of Glasgow Celtic football club has passed away.
Doohoma-born businessman John Keane was often dubbed the ‘man who saved Celtic.’ In the 1990s, an immediate £1million was needed to save Celtic from the ignominy of administration. To avoid such a catastrophe, John pledged this amount to the club.
“A man of absolute humility and dignity, and a lifelong Celtic supporter, John played a hugely significant role in preserving the Club’s history, success and, above all, continuity. John played a pivotal role in saving Celtic for us all and his contribution can never be underestimated,” said Glasgow Celtic in a tribute to the Errisa native.
John served as a non-executive director of Celtic Football and Athletic Club for well over 20 years, and in 2013 was confirmed as the Honorary Chairman of Celtic Football and Athletic Club.
In August 2013 the club decided give John the highly-deserved honour of unfurling the League Championship Flag, “John gave so much to Celtic, making such a crucial contribution and putting the club before anything else. He should be remembered, always as one of the most important figures in the Club’s long history.
An unassuming man of such knowledge, warmth and character, John will be so sadly missed by so many. The sincere thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with John’s family at this very difficult time,” Glasgow Celtic added.
Erris councillor Gerry Coyle said Celtic’s saviour “never forgot where he came from.” “He’s from Doohoma. That’s where he came from. He never forgot what he came from and was a massive supporter of this area,” said Cllr Coyle.
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