THERE is widespread sadness at the death of a very popular County Donegal priest.
Father Des Polke will be laid to rest in Castlefin this weekend.
He had served in parishes throughout the Derry Diocese including Moville and Faughanvale.
Father Des was known for his charm and his wit, always cracking a joke with parishioners.
A spokesman for the diocese said they had learned of his death with “great sadness.”
People have been taking to social media to pay tribute to him.
“A really humble and wonderful individual,” said one.
“He was a wee gentleman. The Finn Valley is poorer without him,” said another.
Father Polke’s wake has seen a steady stream of visitors to the parochial house in Castlefin this evening.
Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Saturday.
DEATH NOTICE
POLKE (Castlefin, Co. Donegal and formerly of Ballycastle, Co. Mayo) – May 21, 2014 suddenly at the Parochial House. Rev. Fr. Desmond Polke R.I.P., much loved brother of Brian, Eileen and the late Niall and Billy. Reposing at the Parochial House, Castlefin today, Thursday from 4pm. Funeral leaving the Parochial House tomorrow, Friday at 7pm to St Mary`s Church, Castlefin for Mass at 7.30pm. Requiem Mass on Saturday at 12 noon. Interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Deeply regretted by the bishops and the priests of the Derry Diocese, his brother, sister, nieces, nephews and family circle. Sacred Heart of Jesus have mercy on his soul.
